Kodagu Model Forest Trust & the Forest Department have jointly launched  The Green Village Community Forum, a pilot project, in seven villages of Thithimathi and Devarapura gram panchayats to tackle the man-elephant conflict in the Coorg.

Nookya-Thithimathi, Hebbale, Badragola, Devarapura, Bemmathi, Maroor and Nellikaad of Thithimathi and Devarapaura Garm Panchayats come under the project. A  six-member committee has been formed in each village and the committee comprises a team leader and five members.

MT Subbaiah has been made as president while S Vasanth Kushalappa is secretary.

Meanwhile, an executive committee has also been formed comprising two Assistant Conservator of Forests and one Range Forest Officer, members from the forum, presidents of the two GPs and team leaders of the seven village committees.

Under the project GVC will maintain the 27 km solar fence erected by the Forest Department. Regular check of the fence and interaction with villagers will clear loopholes if any.

Kodagu Model Forest Trust has donated Rs 50,000 for the project and is planning to raise more funds through donations from planters and the Forest Department.

KMFT has also appointed three fence watchers and provided them with all weather suits and kit, besides a Rs 2 lakh insurance policy.