Chennai, April 29: In response to severe heat and drought, the Forest Department has intensified efforts to fill water bodies in the forest divisions of Tiruppur and Erode. This initiative aims to prevent wildlife from wandering out of the forests in search of water.
Temperatures in Erode have soared to 41 degrees Celsius, one of the highest recorded in the state, while Tiruppur has reached 38.5 degrees Celsius, leading to critical drought conditions in forest areas.
Due to the prolonged heatwave, natural water sources that sustain wildlife have dried up, prompting officials to take emergency measures. Reports indicate that water supply is being provided at 58 locations across both districts.
In Tiruppur’s forest areas, 40 borewells have been installed, 20 of which are equipped with solar-powered systems. These borewells can hold between 15,000 to 30,000 liters of water. Where feasible, they are filled daily, while other locations receive water weekly via tanker trucks.
The initiative aims to ensure that wild animals, including elephants and deer, do not venture beyond the forest boundaries in search of water, thereby reducing the risk of human-wildlife conflict.
Despite the availability of major water sources like the Thirumurthy and Amaravati dams, there remains a significant water shortage in forest areas. Officials noted that unlike last year, when timely rains ensured sufficient greenery and water availability, this season has been marked by continuous drought.
In the Erode Forest Division, water supply is being provided at 18 locations covering several forest areas within the Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Six of these locations utilize solar-powered borewells, while some selected reservoirs are also connected by pipeline.
Additional water bodies are being filled with the help of tanker trucks. Special teams, including forest personnel and local hill residents, have been formed to closely monitor the situation.
Patrols have been intensified, and modern surveillance methods are being used to track wildlife activities along the edges of forest areas. Fire prevention measures have also been strengthened.
Officials have cleared hundreds of hectares of invasive vegetation and established over 200 kilometers of extensive firebreaks to reduce the risk of forest fires during the peak summer months.
Forest officials stated that existing natural and man-made water structures, including check dams, seepage ponds, wells, and streams, continue to support wildlife. However, supplementary measures will remain crucial until rainfall resumes.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment