Popular wild tusker Padayappa missing from Munnar for several days, Popular wild tusker Padayappa missing, Munnar, kerala elephant, latest news

05 June 2023, 09:16 AM IST

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Munnar: Padayappa, a renowned wild tusker often seen roaming in residential areas of Munnar, has been reported missing for several days now.

The tusker, suffering from age-related issues and a leg injury, was last sighted on May 17. Over the past two months, Padayappa had been regularly visiting the waste plant located in Kallar, presumably in search of food. Unfortunately, the recent decision made by the Munnar Panchayat to cease the supply of food to the elephant and erect a large gate in front of the plant compelled Padayappa to leave the area.

Padayappa, known for its calm behaviour, has been suffering a limp due to an injury on his hind leg. He is often spotted in Munnar tea plantations and nearby human settlements.

Meanwhile, Arikomban, a rogue wild tusker that caused widespread destruction in human settlements in Kerala and later shifted to a forest region in Periyar Tiger Reserve on April 29, was tranquilised by Tamil Nadu Forest Department at Cumbam on Monday morning. Arikomban entered human settlements in the Tamil Nadu forest region on April 30, forcing the Tamil Nadu government to launch a mission to capture the elephant.