Providing edible waste to elephants: Answer to human elephant conflict

I do not wish to elaborate on the Human Elephant Conflict. My suggestion for this problem is to provide food and water to elephants in their own habitat. 1. Food, such as agricultural waste (vegetables, fruits, paddy, rice, etc. which are not for human consumption, various types of plants, leaves, etc.) could be air- lifted by helicopters and or light aircraft to the forest areas where elephant herds normally live. Food collection centres could be set up in suitable locations. Villagers will also assist in food collection.

2. When elephants are able to find their food in their own habitats, they will not venture out in search of food.

3. As regards water, suitable lowlying areas in the jungles could be transformed as medium size lakes/ponds.

4. This may look like a costly operation, but when looking at this perennial problem where human lives are at risk, not to mention the loss of agricultural produce and the complete and partial damages to a large number of homes in many parts of the country, it may be worthwhile looking at this suggestion.

5. Expensive electric fences (costing nearly Rs. 300 million a year for maintenance) which injure elephants will not be necessary. 6. Costly constructions to prevent elephants crossing railway tracks can be avoided.

7. Medical treatment to elephants and deaths and injuries due to shooting and other dangerous methods used to drive away elephants, could be avoided.

8. The Sri Lanka Air Force could

play a major role here. 9. Tourists may be taken in these aircrafts which might be a means of an income. 10.This is an eco-friendly suggestion where a large quantity of edible waste, free from harmful after effects to elephants could also be disposed of in a fruitful manner. D. Leslie Fernando Colombo 6.