An Assam village builds solar fence to protect itself from repeated elephant attacks, putting an end to a conflict that lasted over 20 years. The community in Goalpara district has successfully installed a 3-kilometre-long solar-powered fence to safeguard its crops, homes, and people from wild elephants that used to raid the village regularly.
The initiative, led by villagers of Matia block, marks a breakthrough in local wildlife-human conflict management. Not only has the fence proven effective, but it also offers an eco-friendly solution that avoids harming animals.
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20 years of fear and crop loss
For two decades, residents of this region lived under constant threat. Elephants from nearby forests often entered farmlands and homes, especially during harvest seasons. The villagers suffered major crop losses every year, which affected their income and food supply.
People also risked their lives to chase elephants away. In several cases, both humans and elephants got injured or killed in these encounters. Despite forest department efforts, the situation remained largely unchanged.
Local farmer Dipak Das said, “We couldn’t sleep peacefully at night. Every sound made us panic. Crops we grew with hard work were gone in a single night.”
Assam village builds solar fence using community support
Determined to find a solution, the villagers joined hands and took matters into their own hands. With technical help from local NGOs and partial funding through community contributions, the Assam village built a solar fence around the most vulnerable points near the forest.
The 3-kilometre fence uses solar panels to power a low-voltage electric current. This current does not harm the elephants but acts as a safe deterrent. The fence activates automatically when animals approach, creating a buzzing sound and mild shock to prevent entry.
What makes this effort unique is that the project was fully managed by the village. Community members took part in planning, sourcing materials, and installing the system. Volunteers also monitor and maintain the fence daily.
Eco-friendly and sustainable solution
Solar fencing is gaining popularity in India as a non-lethal way to manage wildlife movement. The technology ensures safety for both animals and people, especially in sensitive regions like Assam, where wildlife corridors pass through human settlements.
By building this solar-powered fence, the village has avoided using harmful methods like electric traps, firecrackers, or deep trenches. These methods often injure or displace elephants, increasing long-term risks.
Forest ranger Anupam Kalita praised the effort. He said, “This is the kind of collaboration we want to see. The Assam village built a solar fence without waiting for outside help. It’s low-cost, effective, and sustainable.”
Positive results already visible
Since the fence went up in early June 2025, not a single elephant has entered the village. Farmers have harvested their crops without fear for the first time in years. Children now play outside in the evenings, and families no longer stay awake at night worrying about elephant raids.
The success has encouraged nearby villages to consider similar steps. Talks are ongoing between local leaders, NGOs, and the forest department to replicate this model in other vulnerable areas of Goalpara and neighbouring districts.
Looking ahead: A model for peaceful coexistence
The story of how an Assam village built a solar fence shows that with local initiative and smart technology, long-standing conflicts can find peaceful solutions. The villagers did not wait for government intervention but worked together for a common goal.
This community-led project highlights the importance of coexistence between humans and wildlife. Instead of treating animals as enemies, it offers a way to respect their space while protecting livelihoods.
Experts believe this approach could work in other parts of India too. Regions facing similar conflicts with elephants, wild boars, or nilgais may benefit from solar fencing if supported properly.
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