Kanniyakumari Tribal Hamlets Face Rising Wild Elephant Intrusions

Residents of the 'kaani' tribal hamlets in Kanniyakumari district have expressed growing concern over the frequent intrusion of wild elephants into their habitations over the past few months. The movement of elephants from the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary to reserved forests in Kanniyakumari has led to repeated encounters between the animals and local communities.

Several incidents of property damage have been reported. A few days ago, an elephant damaged a grocery shop in Velipilam Modhiramalai. A couple of months earlier, a security shed at a plantation in Koduthuraimalai was destroyed. Elephants have been frequently sighted near hamlets such as Modhiramalai, Velipilam Modhiramalai, Kolonjimadam Modhiramalai, and Thatchamalai, as well as foothill villages like Penu and Arukani.

Sounder Raj, a resident of Velipilam Modhiramalai, noted that elephant sightings near tribal settlements in the Western Ghats have increased compared to previous years. He explained that the animals are highly attracted to the smell of sweet food items, often venturing into settlements in search of food. Referring to the grocery shop incident, he said the elephant damaged the shop while attempting to reach palm jaggery stored inside.

The forest department has advised residents not to venture outdoors at night and has been providing compensation for damage to houses and shops. Kanniyakumari District Forest Officer A. Anbu stated that the elephants' movement appears normal for this season, as they are attracted to fruits like jackfruit and banana commonly found near human settlements. He added that scanty rainfall this year has also influenced elephant movement through these areas, as the hamlets are located near the upper reaches of the Pechiparai dam.

“Special teams have been formed to monitor the movement of elephants, which appears to be normal for this season. Timely compensation is being provided to tribal residents in cases of crop or property damage,” Mr. Anbu said. The forest department continues to balance wildlife conservation with the safety and livelihoods of local communities.