Kerala, known for its rich biodiversity and lush forests, is home to numerous wildlife species and vital ecosystems. However, these natural resources face significant threats from activities like illegal logging, poaching, and environmental violations. Such activities not only harm the environment but also disrupt local ecosystems, endanger wildlife, and threaten the livelihoods of communities that depend on forests and natural resources.
In response to these growing challenges, Kerala Police, in collaboration with various agencies, have implemented a range of actions to curb environmental crimes and protect the state’s flora and fauna. By leveraging technology, enacting stringent laws, and engaging with local communities, Kerala Police have become an integral part of environmental conservation efforts.
1. Combating Illegal Logging
Illegal logging is one of the most damaging activities in Kerala’s forests. It leads to deforestation, soil erosion, and the loss of biodiversity. In recent years, the state has seen an uptick in illegal timber trade where valuable trees, such as teak and rosewood, are felled and sold on the black market. These actions pose a significant threat to Kerala’s eco-system and reduce the ability of forests to provide essential services, such as carbon sequestration and water regulation.
Kerala Police, in collaboration with the Forest Department and other authorities, have strengthened enforcement efforts against illegal logging. Special units, such as the Forest Protection Squad, patrol vulnerable forest areas and conduct regular raids on timber markets and logging sites. The police have also made efforts to increase surveillance, using drones and satellite imagery to monitor forest regions for unauthorized tree cutting.
The Kerala Forest Act and Wildlife Protection Act provide the legal foundation for the prosecution of offenders involved in illegal logging. Offenders face severe legal consequences, including heavy fines and imprisonment. Kerala Police are also working to increase awareness about the environmental impact of illegal logging through community outreach programs and collaboration with local environmental NGOs.
2. Tackling Poaching and Wildlife Crimes
Poaching is another critical concern in Kerala, where animals such as the Asian elephant, tiger, and malabar large-spotted civet are often targeted by poachers for their valuable body parts like tusks, skins, and bones. Kerala Police, in collaboration with the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department, have taken aggressive action against poaching networks.
The state police use a combination of intelligence gathering, forensic techniques, and community policing to detect and dismantle illegal wildlife trade operations. In addition to traditional methods, Kerala Police have established wildlife crime cells that specialize in investigating poaching incidents. These cells work closely with local communities, forest guards, and national agencies like the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) to crack down on wildlife trafficking.
In high-risk areas like Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Silent Valley National Park, specialized task forces are deployed to monitor for poaching activity. Advanced surveillance equipment, including motion-detection cameras and night-vision devices, is also used to track poachers. Kerala Police have also conducted joint operations with neighboring states to curb the interstate smuggling of wildlife products.
3. Addressing Environmental Violations
Environmental violations, including illegal mining, sand mining, and pollution in rivers and lakes, are significant threats to Kerala’s natural heritage. These activities degrade the environment, harm aquatic life, and contribute to air and water pollution. The state police play an essential role in enforcing laws related to environmental protection.
Illegal mining of minerals like granite and manganese has been a major issue, particularly in Idukki and Wayanad districts, where unchecked quarrying has led to environmental degradation. Kerala Police, alongside the State Pollution Control Board and Kerala Forest Department, conduct regular checks on mining sites and take legal action against those involved in illegal mining.
Illegal sand mining along rivers is another widespread problem. Kerala Police work with local administration to monitor riverbeds and prevent the unlawful extraction of sand, which disrupts ecosystems and increases the risk of flooding. Operation Sand, launched by Kerala Police, has resulted in numerous arrests and the confiscation of mining equipment used in illegal activities.