TPWODL Launches ‘GajaSanrakshana’ Project to Reduce Human–Elephant Conflict

• Joint initiative with forest department and NGO ‘SNEHA’ to promote human–elephant coexistence.
• Project covers four forest ranges across Sambalpur, Sundergarh and Deogarh.
• Use of Technology and Community Participation to Prevent Conflicts.

Burla, swa news : TP Western Odisha Distribution Limited (TPWODL), in collaboration with forest department and NGO ‘SNEHA’, has launched the ‘GajaSanrakshana’ Project to mitigate human–elephant conflict and promote peaceful coexistence. The project is currently covering four forest ranges- Sambalpur Sadar, Naktideula, Reamal and Koida— spread over Sambalpur, Sundergarh and Deogarh districts.

The project will address key challenges such as habitat fragmentation, unsafe solar fencing, and shrinking elephant corridors. Key interventions under the project will include the deployment of smart sensors, GPS-based camera trap, early warning systems, community mobile application to track elephant movement and issue real-time alerts, GSM-enabled display boards, capacity-building programmes for local officials and villagers, and rectification works at electrocution threat areas. Community-led patrol groups, known as “GajaSaathis,” will be trained and engaged for night surveillance and conflict prevention. These efforts would help increase awareness, reduce conflict incidents, and strengthen community involvement in elephant conservation.

The inaugural programme was held at TPWODL’s Technology Centre in Burla and was attended by Mr. Manoj Sika, ACF Sambalpur; Mr. SwadhinataSahani, ACF Deogarh; Mr. Aswini Kumar Behera, ACF Redhakhol, along with other forest officers, representatives from ‘SNEHA’ NGO, and senior leadership, functional chiefs, heads, and employees of TPWODL.

Mr. Parveen Verma, CEO, TPWODL, lauded the conservation-focused initiative and stressed the need for strong coordination to safeguard both human lives and elephants, with a clear goal of achieving ‘zero harm’ across TPWODL’s operational areas. He also proposed extending the project to Bargarh district.

The ACF, Sambalpur, shared insights on elephant protection measures and the challenges faced on the ground. Mr. Ramasamy Krishnan, Executive Director and Mr. Ranjit K. Patnaik, Project In-charge of SNEHA NGO presented the project roadmap, while gratitude was extended to the Head CSR – Odisha Discom for providing project background, guidance, and continued support.

The ‘GajaSanrakshana’ Project exemplifies TPWODL’s commitment to collaborative environmental stewardship, demonstrating how technology, local knowledge, and sustained engagement can protect wildlife while ensuring community safety and livelihoods.