The Supreme Court of India has mandated a nationwide survey to assess barriers obstructing elephant corridors,a critical step in wildlife conservation. This directive, issued on August 18, 2026,requires the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to investigate whether states have erected obstacles that impede the natural migration of elephants.
During the proceedings, a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and including Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana underscored that states cannot justify the construction of barriers, even under pretext of protecting agricultural interests. "The construction of any barriers or blockades in elephant corridors is intolerable. We firmly state that wildlife must not face obstacles," the court declared.
Elephants, known for their extensive migratory patterns,often traverse vast distances in search of food and water. The court highlighted the need for states to respect these natural routes. Chief Justice Kant pointed out the presence of elephants in Yamuna Nagar,Haryana, which migrate to Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. He emphasized that no state has the authority to obstruct these migration paths.
In its ruling, the court specifically prohibited the use of fireballs and torches to deter elephants from entering agricultural lands, a practice reportedly common in West Bengal. Justice Bagchi noted that such measures have been used to chase elephants migrating from Nepal through West Bengal towards Jharkhand. The court's decision reflects a growing recognition of the need to balance human interests with wildlife conservation.
The Supreme Court has ordered the Centre to submit report within six weeks detailing the measures taken to ensure unobstructed corridors for elephants . This report must also address the use of coercive tactics against wildlife, including fireballs and torches. The court reiterated that the MoEFCC has already established guidelines aimed at maintaining these vital corridors,but local issues have hindered their effectiveness.
Prerna Singh Bindra, an activist and petitioner in the case, argued that the current practices exacerbate the challenges faced by elephant herds. She called for an end to the mob-like chases that often result in harm to the animals. Chief Justice Kant assured that necessary measures should be implemented and that the court would be updated on situation through the forthcoming status report.
In a related matter, Supreme Court had previously agreed to consider a plea for contempt proceedings against state authorities for allegedly violating its orders prohibiting the use of fireballs to drive elephants away from human settlements. This ongoing legal scrutiny underscores court's commitment to wildlife protection and the enforcement of its directives.
This ruling not only emphasizes the importance of preserving wildlife corridors but also reflects a broader commitment to environmental conservation in India. As human activities increasingly encroach upon natural habitats, the court's decision serves as reminder of the need for sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife.
