Once again, elephant attacks in Kerala have made headlines. The latest incident occurred during the annual festival at Shuhada Maqam Mosque in Kootanad, Palakkad district, where an elephant named Vallamkulam Narayanan Kutty ran amok. Its mahout, Kunjumon Ibrahim, was killed on the spot, while another person sustained injuries.
This is around the fourth incident in Kerala this year alone. According to wildlife conservation experts, excessive heat and environmental changes are aggravating elephant behavior. “With the loss of their natural cool forest habitats, they are unable to adapt,” experts have assessed.
The elephant lost control after participating in a procession involving 47 elephants. Several nearby vehicles were also damaged, and terrified locals ran for safety. To prevent further destruction, a special squad arrived at the scene and controlled the elephant using petrol bombs near a canal.
The time has come to reassess Kerala’s elephant festivals and celebrations in light of the conditions these elephants endure. Observations suggest that climate change and habitat loss are causing serious behavioral issues in elephants. The increasing human-elephant conflict is repeatedly proving to be a major threat.
To prevent such recurring tragedies, it is crucial to take serious measures for both elephant welfare and public safety. Authorities, including the government and the forest department, must implement stricter regulations regarding the use of elephants in public events.
At the same time, we must also recognize our duty to protect these magnificent creatures and ensure they have a suitable environment to thrive.
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