Residents’ perceptions of human–elephant conflict: case study in Bahundangi, Nepal

Bhuwan Dhakal () and Brijesh Thapa ()
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Bhuwan Dhakal: University of Florida
Brijesh Thapa: University of Florida

Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, 2019, vol. 21, issue 1, No 25, 481 pages

Abstract: Abstract Human–elephant conflict (HEC) has created detrimental impacts to the residents of Bahundangi in eastern Nepal. This agricultural community is located in the north-east region of Jhapa District and is the principal point of entry for elephants from West Bengal, India. The impacts are widespread on agricultural lands, household livelihoods, personal property, and security. This study explores residents’ impacts via a qualitative approach whereby locals describe narratives about the state of HEC in their community. This method allows for further probing of the issues and identifies themes to be utilized as the next step to build assessments. Six focus group discussions were conducted among different stakeholders. Five themes were identified which were divided into ten subthemes. Results illustrated a range of opinions and were largely correlated based on where houses were located. Collectively, participants were troubled with the status quo and vented their frustration about the lack of commitment, coordination, and elephant controls by the government. Also, concerns were further emphasized about the increase in conflict intensity which has exacerbated annually. HEC issue has been deeply entrenched and needs a multipronged strategy for conflict mitigation. Results should assist policy and decision makers with respect to implementation of strategic measure for conflict alleviation.

Keywords: Human dimensions; Wildlife; Elephant; Conflict; Perceptions; Policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
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DOI: 10.1007/s10668-017-0047-1

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