Wild animals extensively destroy crops in Uva, regional farmers complain.
Uva agriculture authorities said the annual crop production in the area has reduced considerably because of this reason.
The farmers have requested that they be provided with air rifles to chase away wild animals.
Welimada, Uva Parangama, Viyaluva, Haputale and a few other areas in Badulla are regularly invaded by torque monkeys.
Wild animals have destroyed farm lands in Mahiyanganaya and Viyaluva as well.
Although the farmers can buy air rifles over the counter, many of them cannot afford them. An air rifle or a pellet gun is sold at Rs.25,000 to Rs.75000. On the other hand, many farmers do not know how to select an air rifle suitable for their purpose.
Wild elephants, toque monkeys, monkeys, giant squirrels, wild boars, porcupines, rabbits and peacocks widely ruin crops, they said.
They, therefore, urge the authorities to set up a system to safeguard their crops.
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