In a significant breakthrough to combat the human-elephant conflict, engineers at the National Engineering and Development Center (NERDC) under the Ministry of Science and Technology have successfully developed an advanced elephant fence system that provides real-time SMS alerts if breached.
This scientific solution was implemented as a pilot project at the Weeraweela Open Camp and was formally handed over to the Prisons Department in the presence of Science and Technology Minister Krishantha Abeysena and Environment Minister Dhammika Patabedi.
The 3.8-kilometer-long fence, standing at 16 feet high, was developed using precast concrete technology with the support of private sector collaboration.
One of the most innovative features of the system is its ability to instantly notify authorities via SMS when any part of the fence is damaged or tampered with. Additionally, a dedicated web platform has been created to monitor and analyze fence activity and reports in real time.
Unlike conventional elephant fences, which are easily destroyed by elephants, this locally engineered system is designed to withstand attacks, making breaches significantly less likely.
Previously, Sri Lanka relied on imported technical equipment for elephant fence systems, which drained substantial foreign reserves. The new system drastically reduces costs, with the electric energizer for the fence being manufactured at just Rs. 100,000, compared to the Rs. 500,000 cost of imported versions.
Built using national and international standards, the new elephant fence system is a cost-effective, durable, and sustainable solution to one of Sri Lanka’s most pressing wildlife management challenges.
