Daijiworld Media Network - Sullia

Sullia, Dec 28: Ajjavara, located just a few kilometres from Sullia town, is reeling under increasing attacks by wild elephants. A herd of elephants that has been camping close to residential areas for the past week has been creating panic among villagers, especially during evening hours.

Due to the situation, residents of Medinadkka and Karlappady areas are virtually confined to their homes. A herd of three elephants, including a calf, has been roaming the area for several days and is being spotted on roads, footpaths, agricultural fields and even in house compounds.

The elephants have turned the Ajjavar–Narkodu road into their regular corridor, freely moving along the road and spreading fear among commuters. As a result, farmers are unable to visit their plantations, labourers are unable to carry out rubber tapping, and even schoolchildren and the general public are afraid to use the road during daytime.

In Medinadkka, the elephants have been repeatedly damaging plantations, destroying banana, arecanut, coconut and other crops. Extensive crop damage has also been reported from Paddambailu and Karlappady areas.

Villagers have urged the authorities to immediately deploy the Elephant Task Force and drive the wild elephants back into the forest to prevent further damage and ensure public safety.