Panel studying availability of elephant fodder in conflict-hit region in Idukki’s Devikulam range, say officials

Following a surge in human–elephant conflicts, a four-member panel was appointed to study mitigation steps. | Photo Credit: Sandeep Vellaram

Amid allegations from farmers’ groups that authorities are attempting to restore a wild elephant corridor in Chinnakkanal, officials said that an expert panel appointed by the District Collector is primarily studying wild elephant fodder availability in the conflict-hit region under the Devikulam forest range.

Following a surge in human–elephant conflicts and fatalities across Chinnakkanal, Rajakumari, and Santhanpara panchayats, District Collector Dineshan Cheruvatt recently appointed a four-member expert committee to identify the causes and suggest mitigation measures.