Koyilandy: In response to the tragic incident during an elephant procession at the Manakulangara Temple in Koyilandy, which claimed the lives of three people and injured several others, the Heritage Animal Task Force in Thrissur, in collaboration with the voluntary group PETA India (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), has introduced robot elephants as an alternative for those who insist on using elephants in temples and festivals.

PETA India has offered to provide a robot elephant to any temple that commits, in writing, to stop using real elephants during processions. The organisation, which advocates for the ethical treatment of animals, has pledged to make this technology available to temples looking for humane alternatives.

VK Venkitachalam, Secretary of the Heritage Animal Task Force, announced a ceremony showcasing the robot elephant. They operate at the Kunnath Lane facility in Thiruvambady, Thrissur. In addition to the robot elephant, PETA India is also offering a chariot to temples that prefer that option.

The robot elephant, designed to replicate the appearance and movements of a real elephant, features a moving iris, ears, trunk, and tail, all of which have motion. The elephant can accommodate four people, with a ladder for easy access. It also has a dedicated space for tying a Thidambu (an idol raised outside the sanctum in temples). Those carrying traditional festival items such as kolam, kuda, Aalavattam, and Venchamaram can also sit comfortably on the robot elephant during processions.

Weighing eight quintals (800 kg), the robot elephant is powered by an internal battery that moves the trunk, head, tail, and ears. It is placed inside the robot in a way that ensures the safety of devotees, preventing any risk of electrocution. The cost of the robot elephant is approximately Rs 8 lakh, with PETA India covering the maintenance expenses for the first two years.

Additionally, the robot elephant can be pushed by devotees on a wheeled platform, making it easy to move during processions.

PETA India has already provided free robot elephants to five temples, including the Bala Tripura Sundari Devi Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Mattur Thrikkayil Mahadeva Temple in Kalady, Edayar Sree Vadakkumbad Shiva Vishnu Temple in Kannur, Irinjadappilly Sree Krishna Temple in Thrissur, and Kombara Sree Krishna Temple.

Venkitachalam has encouraged temples and elephant owners interested in owning a robot elephant or chariot to contact the Heritage Animal Task Force for more information. Phone: 9495712811, 8700935202.