Wild elephants cause panic and property damage in Kerala and Tamil Nadu

Wild elephants have caused disruption and property damage in parts of Kerala and the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border region.

On the interstate Ghat road near Gudalur, an elephant blocked vehicle movement between Malappuram and Gudalur, causing significant delays for motorists and tourists. During the encounter, a tourist couple on a two-wheeler was forced to abandon their vehicle after the elephant charged at them. The animal trampled the motorcycle before eventually retreating into the forest.

In a separate incident in Guhanadhapuram, near Marayoor in Idukki, a wild elephant strayed into a village around 1 am on Thursday. The animal damaged two parked SUVs and entered the premises of local houses and resorts, causing panic among residents. A Rapid Response Team was deployed to drive the elephant back into the forest. Local residents have expressed concerns regarding the frequent presence of elephant herds in areas populated by homes and tourist accommodations.