Chain fencing for forests to protect crops from animals

CHANDIGARH: The Punjab government has decided to go in for chain link fencing in forests — 57.38 km in length — in Patiala to protect the crops of farmers from animals straying out of these areas. Forest and wildlife protection minister Sadhu Singh Dharamsot issued a statement on Thursday said that the fencing will cost Rs 12.13 crore. “The state has seen a surge in the numbers of nilgai, wild boar and sambar. Though this is regarded an achievement from the aspect of wildlife protection, farmers have to bear the brunt of losses when animals destroy crops. The problem is grave in Patiala which has six wildlife sanctuaries.”