Severely wounded elephant tranquilised in Kannur after straying into residential zone

Kannur: A seriously injured wild elephant that strayed into a residential area in Karikkottakary was tranquilised for treatment on Wednesday. A veterinary team from the Forest Department, led by Dr Ajesh Mohandas, administered the tranquiliser after assessing the animal’s condition. The elephant, which has a broken jaw and is unable to eat or drink, will receive urgent medical care.

Earlier, the District Collector had imposed a prohibitory order in three wards of Ayyankunnu Grama Panchayat after the elephant was sighted in residential areas. The restrictions, enforced from 10 a.m. on March 5  to 6 p.m. on  March 6, aimed to prevent public gatherings and ensure safety. Violators were warned of action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Forest officials had been attempting to drive the elephant back into the forest, as visuals aired by television channels showed. However, its severe injuries necessitated immediate intervention.

The region has been on high alert following the fatal elephant attack on an elderly couple at Aralam Farms on February 23.

(With inputs from PTI)