Wild Elephant Alert Issued for Highways Near Munnar and Devikulam Amid Rising Road Incidents

Idukki: The Forest Department has issued a warning to travelers and tourists due to the frequent presence of wild elephants on the national highway. The alert comes in response to the regular movement of elephants onto the Kochi–Dhanushkodi National Highway and other roads adjoining forest areas.

The police have instructed motorists to maintain a safe distance if they spot elephants on or near the road and have advised extreme caution during night travel. In the Munnar and Devikulam regions, wild elephants, including Padayappa, have been regularly appearing on the roads. Elephants standing along the roadside have also disrupted traffic in recent days.

Authorities have strictly warned the public not to provoke wild animals or attempt to capture photographs of them. The Forest Department has deployed Rapid Response Teams at key locations to monitor elephant movements.

The movement of elephants into populated areas and onto roads is believed to be due to a shortage of food and water within forest regions. Drivers are advised to control their speed to prevent accidents and avoid honking, as it may agitate the animals. The public is requested to inform the Forest Department’s control room immediately in case of any emergencies.