LETTERS: The recent spate of wildlife fatalities on highways has highlighted the urgent need for effective measures to protect our precious fauna.
Newspapers have reported vehicle collisions with a tiger, an elephant calf, a sun bear and an adult elephant, with some of the animals being killed.
These accidents not only cause immense suffering to the animals, but also pose significant risks to human lives.
It is crucial for authorities to implement comprehensive strategies to prevent these mishaps. Here are some recommendations:
FIRST, one of the most effective ways to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions is to construct wildlife crossings and eco-viaducts.
These structures allow animals to cross highways without coming into contact with vehicles.
The implementation of such crossings has proven successful in various countries, significantly reducing the number of accidents involving wildlife.
SECOND, installing adequate signage in areas prone to wildlife crossings can alert drivers to the presence of animals.
These signs should be clear and visible, especially at night. In addition, integrating warning systems that detect the movement of large animals and trigger flashing lights or alarms can further reduce the risk of collisions.
THIRD, reducing the speed limit in areas with frequent wildlife crossings can give drivers more time to react and prevent accidents.
Authorities should consider implementing lower speed limits, particularly during dawn and dusk, when animals are most active. Traffic calming measures such as speed bumps and rumble strips can also prompt drivers to slow down.
FOURTH, ensuring habitat connectivity is crucial for the movement and survival of wildlife populations.
Authorities should prioritise the preservation and restoration of natural corridors that animals use to move between habitats.
Maintaining these corridors will help minimise the need for animals to cross busy highways.
FIFTH, raising public awareness of the importance of wildlife conservation and the dangers of road accidents is vital.
Authorities should engage with local communities, drivers and tourists to educate them about the risks and encourage responsible behaviour.
Community-led initiatives, such as citizen science projects to monitor wildlife movements, can also play a significant role in preventing accidents.
SIXTH, using technology to track wildlife movements and analyse accident data can help in making informed decisions. Authorities should invest in global positioning system (GPS) collars for animals and camera traps to monitor the movement patterns of key species.
SEVENTH, analysing data on wildlife-vehicle collisions can identify hotspots and inform the placement of mitigation measures.
EIGHTH, collaboration between government agencies, conservation organisations, and research institutions is essential for effective wildlife management.
Joint efforts can lead to the development of comprehensive strategies and the pooling of resources for large-scale projects.
NINTH, conservation groups can provide valuable insights and support in implementing and monitoring measures to protect wildlife.
By implementing a combination of structural, technological and community-based measures, authorities can significantly reduce the risk of wildlife-vehicle collisions.
It is time to prioritise the coexistence of humans and wildlife through thoughtful planning and concerted efforts.
TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
Animal welfare advocate,
Kuala Lumpur
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times