Thrissur: A wild elephant with head injuries in Athirappilly was tranquilized as part of efforts to provide medical care. Chief Veterinary Surgeon Arun Zachariah and his team assessed the situation before administering the tranquilizer.
The tranquilized elephant retreated into the forest. It was located on a river island near the Vettilappara Plantation Corporation factory. The elephant had been in the area since the 15th, prompting forest officials to begin monitoring its movements. Officials believe the injuries occurred during a fight with another elephant, resulting in two wounds on its head. There were also rumors of gunshot injuries, but forest officials clarified that one wound had already healed.
Veterinary experts reported the elephant appeared weak and isolated. The DFO (Divisional Forest Officer) and other officials were present on-site to oversee the operation. While injuries from tusk fights usually heal naturally, the elephant’s frequent presence in human habitation led to the decision to tranquilize and treat it for safety and recovery.
