Mega projects in Arunachal Pradesh leading to rising human-elephant conflicts: Study
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, railways)· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
A study by WWF-India and the Arunachal Pradesh forest department highlights how infrastructure projects like hydropower plants and highways are escalating human-elephant conflicts by fragmenting habitats.
Background
The study recorded 1,503 human-elephant conflict incidents in Arunachal Pradesh between 2007 and 2024. Infrastructure expansion led to a 78% increase in the elephants' distribution range, causing habitat fragmentation.
Facts for Prelims
- Fact1,503 human-elephant conflict incidents recorded in Arunachal Pradesh between 2007 and 2024
- Fact78% increase in elephants' distribution range due to infrastructure expansion
- S&TAI-based sensors and watch towers proposed as mitigation strategies for elephant corridors
- PlaceArunachal Pradesh
For Mains
Q. Discuss the conflict between large-scale infrastructure development and wildlife conservation in ecologically sensitive zones like Arunachal Pradesh.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Habitat fragmentation: Disruption of migratory corridors by hydropower and highway projects
- Technological intervention: Efficacy of AI-based sensors vs. physical barriers in wildlife management
- Developmental trade-offs: Balancing regional energy/connectivity goals with biodiversity preservation
Keywords: Habitat fragmentation · Human-wildlife conflict · Ecologically sensitive zones · Biodiversity conservation · Infrastructure development
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