16/07/2024
In the heart of Sri Lanka’s dry zone, the village of Bendiwewa, perched on the fringe of sprawling forests near Habarana, tells a tale of transformation.
For years, the villagers here lived in a state of vigilance, as the threat of elephant intrusion loomed large over their lives. The Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC) in Sri Lanka had cast its long shadow over this community, turning their peaceful existence into a daily struggle for survival.
With over 100 humans and more than 400 elephants losing their lives annually to this conflict since 2022, Bendiwewa’s story was far from unique. Elephants roamed freely, often straying into human settlements, leading to tragic encounters and the destruction of crops.
The village’s 108 households, dependent on agriculture, faced relentless devastation, with their livelihoods hanging in the balance.
In this backdrop of uncertainty, Cinnamon Nature Trails initiated a community-based elephant fencing program. Partnering with the Centre for Conservation and Research (CCR) and funded by the TUI Care Foundation of Germany, this initiative aimed to build a meaningful coexistence between humans and elephants.
A five-kilometer electric fence now encircles Bendiwewa, a silent yet powerful guardian keeping the elephants at bay. This was no small feat; it was a labour of love and necessity, a collective endeavor to reclaim the village’s peace. Fences were also erected around cultivation plots, ensuring that the villagers’ hard work bore fruit, quite literally.
The objectives of the project were clear: protect human lives and properties, ensure zero deaths of elephants, and foster a safe coexistence through community awareness and involvement.
Since the project’s inception, Bendiwewa has witnessed a remarkable transformation. Not a single human or elephant casualty has been reported.
This project has not only safeguarded lives but also nurtures dreams, proving that coexistence is not just possible but essential for a future where both humans and elephants can thrive.