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Kerala Forest Dept Captures Two Wild Elephants in Operation Gajamukti

The Kerala Forest Department successfully captured and relocated two wild elephants as part of 'Operation Gajamukti' in Kannur. The operation, launched from Aralam Farm, aimed to drive the animals away from human settlements and back into the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary. A team of nearly 30 personnel from various departments coordinated the day-long mission. Officials stated that efforts to trace and drive away remaining elephants will continue.

Key Points: Operation Gajamukti: Kerala Captures Two Wild Elephants

  • Two wild elephants captured
  • Part of Operation Gajamukti
  • Aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflict
  • Nearly 30 personnel involved
2 min read

Kerala: Forest Department catches two wild elephants under Operation Gajamukti in Kannur

Kerala Forest Department successfully drives two wild elephants back to Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in a coordinated effort to reduce human-wildlife conflict.

"successfully guided both elephants... back into the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary - Forest Department"

Kannur, March 5

In a continued effort to mitigate rising human-wildlife conflict in the region, the Forest Department carried out a special drive under its 'Operation Gajamukti' initiative, successfully caught two wild elephants and sent them back into the Aralam Farm forest on Wednesday.

According to the state forest department, the operation was undertaken as part of a broader strategy to prevent elephants from straying into human settlements and to ensure the safety of both residents and wildlife.

The elephant drive commenced on the morning of March 4 from Block 7 of Aralam Farm, bordering the Wayanad forest region. Forest officials undertook coordinated measures to drive the animals away from human settlements and lead them back into the forest.

The operation was conducted under the leadership of the Wildlife Warden of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary along with the Kottiyoor Range Officer. Authorities said the mission was part of continued efforts to prevent further incidents and safeguard both residents and wildlife.

Soon after the operation began, the team spotted two wild elephants in the area. Officials were able to drive one elephant towards the helipad area before noon, but the second moved further into the farm.

Later, after sustained efforts, the team successfully guided both elephants through the Kottapara fencing via Thalipara and led them back into the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, successfully concluding the day's mission.

Nearly 30 personnel participated in the operation, including officers from various wings of the forest department, forest watchers, and security staff of Aralam Farm. Four Forest Department vehicles were deployed to support the drive.

The mission was carried out in close coordination with the police, the panchayat, the Tribal Rehabilitation and Development Mission (TRDM), and the Health Department under the leadership of liaison officers appointed in the Aralam panchayat to prevent human-wildlife conflict. Forest officials said the operation to trace and drive away the remaining wild elephants will continue.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
This is a temporary solution. The real problem is shrinking forest corridors. Where will these elephants go? We need long-term habitat conservation plans, not just drives when they come out. The government must address the root cause.
S
Sarah B
I'm visiting from the US and read this with great interest. It's impressive to see such a multi-departmental operation involving police, health, and tribal development. Shows a holistic approach to conservation. Kudos to all 30 personnel involved.
M
Manish T
As someone from a village near a forest in Karnataka, I know the fear these conflicts bring. Glad the elephants were guided back safely without harm. Hope the authorities continue to support the frontline staff with proper equipment and training.
A
Aryan P
Operation Gajamukti is a good name and a necessary mission. But one has to ask, is the Aralam Farm forest area sufficient? With plantations and settlements expanding, conflict is inevitable. Need stricter laws against encroachment.
K
Kavitha C
Respectfully, while the operation's intent is good, I'm concerned about the stress caused to the elephants during the drive. Were wildlife veterinarians present? The article mentions the Health Dept, which is positive. The method matters as much as the result.

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