Assam introduces HaatiApp to mitigate Human-Elephant Conflicts

In Assam, a new mobile app called HaatiApp has been launched to help reduce conflicts between humans and elephants. The app was introduced by Aaranyak, a Guwahati-based NGO, and was inaugurated by Nandita Gorlosa, the state cabinet minister for power, sports, and youth welfare.

How the App works

The HaatiApp is designed to bridge the gap between local people and government departments. Once installed on their phones, users can quickly report elephant sightings to the forest department. This will help both the public and officials respond more effectively to prevent conflicts. In addition to the app, a Solar Fence Manual in Assamese was also launched to provide guidance on protecting properties without harming elephants.

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Animal conservationists, including Padma Shri Parbati Baruah and Dr. Kushal Konwar Sharma, praised the new initiatives. Baruah highlighted the challenges faced by Asian elephants in northeast India due to shrinking habitats caused by human expansion. Sharma expressed concern about the dangers of using illegal electric fences to deter elephants, which can be harmful to both the animals and people.

Government's role and awareness drive

Gorlosa emphasized that the state power department will launch a campaign to educate people about the dangers of illegal electric connections used against elephants. The goal is to reduce incidents of electrocution and improve coexistence between humans and wildlife. The Assam government recognizes that illegal land encroachment is a major factor contributing to human-elephant conflicts and is committed to addressing this issue.