Human-wildlife conflict cases on the rise in Idukki; tusker ‘Padayappa’ destroys vehicle

Human-wildlife conflicts rise in Idukki as tusker 'Padayappa' destroys vehicles, prompting warnings from the Forest department.

As the summer heat intensifies, human-animal conflict is on the rise across Idukki district. On Sunday night, a popular wild tusker locally called “Padayappa” destroyed an autorickshaw in Munnar, while another wild elephant reached the doorstep of a home in Thottappura, near Peerumade.

According to residents, Kadalar Estate resident Karuppa Swami was driving his autorickshaw home from Munnar when he accidentally encountered the tusker near the West Division. As the elephant charged, the driver jumped from the vehicle and fled to safety. The tusker destroyed the vehicle. Residents allege that the elephant has been targeting vehicles for several days.

Munnar Range Officer S. Biju stated that the tusker is currently in musth and is travelling long distances under the cover of night.

“The tusker is exhibiting violent behaviour. Last year, it showed similar aggression during its musth period,” Mr. Biju said. “The Forest department has advised residents and tourists to maintain a safe distance from the animal.”

The officer added that the autorickshaw driver’s encounter on Sunday night was accidental. The Forest department’s Rapid Response Team (RRT) is currently monitoring the tusker’s movements.

“The tusker is presently moving between three different herds in various locations. Some days it stays with a six-member herd at Chokkanad, while other times it is seen with a four-member herd in Thenmala or a nine-member herd in Kadalar,” the official explained.