Wild jumbo strays into human habitat in Idukki, destroys crops

Idukki: A wild elephant that strayed into the residential areas of Mulappuram-Thengodam region in Idukki destroyed crops at several locations, triggering panic among residents. The elephant reportedly entered the locality on Tuesday night and moved close to houses.The animal damaged coconut trees, banana plants and other crops in the farmland of Vijayan at Vazhayil. Residents said the elephant came from the Velur side, which is part of the Idukki forest region. The animal was spotted in the stretch between Karimannoor and Thommankuthu. Forest paths through the teak plantation and across the Kannadi River could allow the elephant to move towards Kaliyar Estate and Vannappuram areas. If it continues along the main road from Mulappuram, it may also reach Karimannoor. A herd of wild elephants had entered Mulappuram, Amayapra and Thengodam areas a few days ago and destroyed crops. Residents said the elephant has been camping in the locality for the past two days. Farmers in the area are already struggling due to the menace of wild boars, monkeys and porcupines, which have made cultivation increasingly difficult. Locals have demanded that preventive measures, including solar fencing, be installed in Mulappuram, Thengodam and Nalpathacre regions to prevent further wildlife attacks. They pointed out that dense vegetation has grown on both sides of Thommankuthu-Karimannoor road up to Mulappuram, while streetlighting in the area remains inadequate. Due to poor visibility, wild animals standing near roadside often go unnoticed, posing a danger to travellers.