Solar fences to prevent jumbo menace on school premises

Forest Department has promised on laying solar-powered fences around the schools affected by elephant menace.

A subsidy of Rs 1 lakh has been provided to schools in Karadigodu, Cheyandane, Kedamullur and Thore regions, falling under Virajpet forest range, in order to ensure the safety of children. School vehicle and other facilities will be provided.

Range Forest Officer K P Gopal said that the department has paid Rs 5 lakh to the schools during the last academic year.

“In case of elephant menace near the schools, Rapid Response Team will be sent to tackle the issue. The elephants loitering around the Guhya school, have been driven back to the forest. SMS alerts are sent to the coffee plantation workers and villagers about the movement of elephants.”