Two tuskers, including a wild elephant popularly known as Baahubali, entered Mettupalayam-Ooty road, causing panic among the people and bringing vehicular movement to a halt. The elephants, coming from Jakanari reserve forest, approached a TNSTC bus, checking for food through the windows and causing fear among the commuters. This led to a one-kilometer-long line of vehicles. Despite moving towards a commercial complex and cloth store, the elephants didn’t cause any damage.
Forest Department Intervention
The Forest Department officials took action by raising a loud noise, which prompted the tusker back into the Nellithurai reserve forest. Baahubali is known for raiding crops in the area, but its visit to the residential area of Ooty left the locals frightened.
Tragic Incident Involving ‘Arikomban’
On the same day, a man named Paulraj from Cumbum was attacked by a rogue tusker named ‘Arikomban’ while riding his two-wheeler in the streets. Paulraj sustained injuries and was taken to Theni Medical College Hospital for treatment, but unfortunately, he passed away without responding to the treatment on Tuesday. The incident led to protests in Cumbum, and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin condoled Paulraj’s death and provided Rs 5 lakh ex-gratia to his family from CM’s Relief Fund.
Continuing Efforts to Track ‘Arikomban’
The Tamil Nadu forest department has formed a five-member tribal team to track down ‘Arikomban,’ as the tusker has not been located yet. The authorities are making efforts to ensure the safety of the people and mitigate any potential harm caused by the rogue elephant.
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