What measures are being proposed to reduce wildlife deaths in the canal?

Recommendations include reorienting existing ramps to aid escape, constructing new ramps, installing guiding mechanisms, and clearing vegetation along the canal sides.

What kind of training is recommended for staff managing the canal?

Specialized animal rescue training, including the use of essential rescue gear, is recommended for frontline staff of the Forest and Public Works Departments.

Home / Environment / Wildlife SOS: Saving Animals from Deadly Canal

Wildlife SOS: Saving Animals from Deadly Canal

Q: What is the Parambikulam Aliyar Project canal's impact on wildlife?

The 49.3-km-long canal has become a deathtrap for various animal species within the Anamalai Tiger Reserve since its commissioning in 1965.

9 Feb

•

Summary

Parambikulam Aliyar Project canal is a death trap for wildlife.
Ramps need reorientation to help animals escape the canal.
New escape routes and training for staff are recommended.

Wildlife SOS: Saving Animals from Deadly Canal

The 49.3-km Parambikulam Aliyar Project canal, an engineering marvel in the Western Ghats, poses a significant threat to wildlife. Since its commissioning in 1965, the open stretches of the canal have become a deathtrap for various animal species within the Anamalai Tiger Reserve.

Authorities are now considering measures to prevent wildlife mortality. A study by WWF-India suggests reorienting existing ramps to face opposite the water flow, aiding animals in escaping if they fall in. High-priority areas for these modifications are the entry points of the canal's seven tunnels.

Further recommendations include constructing 17 additional ramps, installing guiding mechanisms, and using camera traps to monitor usage. Clearing excessive vegetation and fencing a specific section prone to accidental falls are also proposed. The report emphasizes the need for specialized rescue training and equipment for frontline staff of the Forest and Public Works Departments.