Farmers Urge Forest Department Action Against Rampaging Elephant in Thadagam Valley
On Wednesday night, a lone wild elephant wreaked havoc across several farms in Thadagam valley, Coimbatore district, leaving a trail of damaged crops and property. The elephant raided at least seven farms in villages including Somayanur, Kalayanur, and Pappanaickenpalayam. Among the damages, young coconut trees in Somayanur and banana trees in Pappanaickenpalayam were affected. Additionally, the tusker scattered harvested tomatoes stored in trays and damaged 35 young coconut trees in Pappanaickenpalayam.
Farmers are alarmed by the persistent threat posed by the elephant, which also destroyed fences while traversing the villages. R. Manoharan, a farmer from Kalayanur, expressed the community’s fear of venturing out at night due to the elephant’s movements. He criticized the Forest Department’s lack of prompt action in driving away the tusker, warning that farmers might resort to protests if their concerns are not addressed.
In response, Forest Department officials have assured that night patrols in the region will be intensified to mitigate the situation.
Published: September 12, 2024 – 10:53 PM IST
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/lone-tusker-causes-widespread-damages-in-farms-near-coimbatore/article68635131.ece
Category : Coimbatore
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