Thrissur: The injured tusker undergoing treatment at Abhayaranyam, Kodanadu, succumbed to the injuries on Friday morning. The elephant was tranquilised on Wednesday at Athirappilly and was brought to the treatment centre at Kodanadu with the support of Kumki elephants.

It was reported on Thursday that the health condition of the elephant was critical. Though efforts were made to bring back the elephant to normalcy, the wound was so deep. 

Initial rescue and treatment attempts
The tusker was first spotted with a head wound at Athirappilly on January 15. It was initially tranquilised on January 24 and given treatment before being released. However, the wound did not heal, and the elephant remained weak, frequently spraying mud on its injury to fend off flies.

A fresh mission to tranquillise and treat the injured tusker began at 6 a.m. on Wednesday  at Athirappilly. To ensure a safe operation, check posts at Vettilappara were closed to restrict public entry.

Three Kumki elephants and a Rapid Response Team (RRT) from Wayanad were brought in to assist. A special team of veterinary experts, led by Chief Veterinary Officer Arun Zachariah, tracked and tranquillised the elephant. A new kraal had been constructed at the camp using eucalyptus trees brought from Munnar.

Despite all preparations and treatment efforts, the elephant succumbed to its severe infection.