Kerala's Illegal Electric Fencing Crisis Claims Father-Son Duo in Thiruvananthapuram
A tragic incident in Kilimanoor, Thiruvananthapuram, has once again highlighted the deadly consequences of illegal electric fencing in Kerala. Kochunni, 58, and his son Akhil, 35, were found electrocuted in a water canal inside a tapioca farm near the Kilimanoor block panchayat office on Tuesday morning.
Lethal Setup for Crop Protection
Preliminary investigations by authorities revealed that two parallel metal wires had been illegally drawn across the farm and connected to an external power source. This dangerous setup was intended to prevent wild boar intrusion, a common problem for farmers across the state. Unfortunately, what was meant to protect crops turned into a lethal trap for the unsuspecting victims.
According to data from the Electrical Inspectorate, 61 people have been electrocuted in Kerala from illegal electrical fencing over the past four years. The death toll has shown a disturbing upward trend, increasing from seven fatalities in 2021–22 to 14 the following year, then 16 in 2023–24, and a alarming 24 deaths in 2024–25. These statistics underscore the growing public safety hazard posed by unauthorized electrified fences throughout the state.
How These Dangerous Fences Are Powered
State electricity board (KSEB) officials explained that power for these illegal fences is typically obtained in one of two ways: either by directly tapping electricity from the board's distribution lines or by diverting power from legitimate domestic connections. These electrified barriers are commonly erected around house compounds and agricultural lands with the primary purpose of protecting valuable crops from wild animals, particularly wild boars.
In some instances, these fences are also used to trap and hunt animals. Officials emphasized that what begins as a protective measure often transforms into deadly hazards for both humans and animals who accidentally come into contact with them.
The Wild Boar Problem and Government Response
The proliferation of illegal electric fencing is directly connected to Kerala's ongoing struggle with wild boar populations that cause extensive crop damage. The state government had previously permitted the culling of wild boars by licensed shooters in response to widespread agricultural losses. Initially, the forest department carried out these control measures, but responsibility has since been transferred to local bodies to address the issue more effectively at the community level.
Despite these official measures, many farmers continue to resort to dangerous, unauthorized methods like electric fencing to protect their livelihoods. This creates a complex challenge where legitimate concerns about crop protection clash with critical public safety considerations.
The tragic deaths of Kochunni and Akhil serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost of this ongoing crisis. As Kerala grapples with balancing agricultural protection and public safety, authorities face increasing pressure to find sustainable solutions that address both the wild boar problem and the dangerous proliferation of illegal electric fencing across the state.
