Integrated rural housing development 

Man-animal conflicts have become a typical occurrence as more and more cities and villages expand and absorb their surrounding habitats to build concrete homes, industrial areas or to farm crops. A man-animal conflict refers to an encounter between human and wildlife, often resulting negatively with harm to human or animal, loss of property, or even loss of life.

The forest of Gir in Gujarat and its outskirts are characterized by frequent man animal conflicts because of their geographical positioning. Fields stand as a buffer between the forest and human settlements, and many a times take the first blow from these wildlife visits causing damage to the crops, or to people who work in these fields. There have also been incidents where wild animals have fallen and drowned in open wells. Accidents like these pose a threat of slow extinction for some species, material damage, plus a constant state of fear in humans.

AKAH’s intervention

 With focus on safeguarding the interest of both wild and human life, AKAH piloted an initiative in the surrounding 15 villages of Gir, through smaller interventions that have created big impacts. These interventions are designed to mainly ensure safety of humans and animals. 

Specific case of the intervention in a neighbourhood

1. A total of 27 farmlands are fenced with wire fencing supported by bamboo poles. These are intended to control the entry of wild animals in the field.
2. 190 machans are constructed with steel supports and upcycled mesh made of tyre and ropes to be used as watch towers for the entire length of their farm, as well as become a safe space to take shelter in case wild animals enter, or an emergency occurs. 
3. 262 open well covers are covered with steel/aluminum mesh. This has eliminated all incidents of animals drowning in open wells. 
4. 190 solar lights are installed on streets and at crossroads to avoid unintended man-animal interactions after dark. 
5. 20 sanitation units are constructed to make sure that people have a safe, closed and dignified space for their daily use.

Soft interventions included awareness sessions and informal education focused on creating a positive impact on the knowledge enhancement of locals through drama sessions, interactive group meetings, local rallies, one-day celebration events for earth and water day. This hugely brought a change in the locals’ perspectives; and further helped strengthen the objective of the initiative.

Outcomes

These interventions bridged gaps to allow harmony in man-animal interactions than to build walls and restrict access to either party. A significant reduction was noted in the number of animal attacks, human or animal harm, or death. It also helped in restoring the lost balance of man-animal coexistence and brought down fear among locals. 

Inspiration

This project documentation also sheds light on several other issues prevalent in the outskirts of Gir. Understanding the requirement of these rural communities, AKAH piloted a program of Climate Smart Forest Economy Program (CSFEP) funded by Dalberg Catalyst Group to cater to the housing requirement of (low-income group families) in Chitravad. This initiative was focused on building safe, green, affordable and aspirational homes.