In 8 years, wildlife attacks in Kerala have claimed 940 lives

Kottayam, Kerala: The human-wildlife conflict continues to impact the daily lives of communities living near forest regions in Kerala. However, fatalities from wildlife attacks are not limited to those residing close to forests; they also occur in human settlements. Earlier this week, a 40-year-old man was trampled to death by a wild tusker in Knachary, located in Kuttampuzha, Ernakulam district. The incident has once again drawn the attention of both the public and authorities to the rising number of deaths in the state.

According to official government figures, between April 1, 2016 and November 11, 2024, wildlife attacks in the state have claimed the lives of 940 people and injured 7,917 others.

Over the past eight years, the state has provided Rs 27.21 crore in compensation to the families of the deceased and Rs 24.07 crore to those injured. The majority of fatalities were caused by snake bites, which accounted for more than 100 deaths.

In addition, 200 people were killed in elephant attacks, 46 in wild boar attacks, and eight in tiger attacks. 31 others died from bee and hornet stings.