The incident occurred in the Areekode area of Malappuram district, Kerala on January 23.  

According to reports, the elephant fell into the well when a herd entered the area the previous night. Villagers often use firecrackers to deter elephants that stray into human settlements, and it is believed the animal fell while being chased away using this method. The well, intended solely for agricultural use, lacked a protective wall.

Speaking to Newslions Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Nilambur, Karthik explained that a 60-member Forest Department task force worked tirelessly to rescue the elephant and ensure its safe return to the wild. Although the initial rescue plan included using a tranquilizer gun, the operation was completed without firing a single shot. The elephant emerged unharmed and was able to rejoin its natural habitat.

Before the operation commenced, the landowner and local residents of Urangattiri, where the well is situated, raised concerns. They demanded assurances that the elephant would be tranquilized and relocated to a remote forest area, citing previous crop damage caused by elephants frequently entering the region. Addressing these concerns, the Nilambur DFO highlighted that tranquilizing and relocating an elephant is a complex process requiring careful evaluation. The rescue was carried out following an agreement with the locals.

The Forest Department has reportedly pledged ₹1.5 lakh in compensation to the landowner for partially demolishing the well to create a rescue path. Additionally, the department has agreed to install solar fencing in the area, with an estimated cost of ₹1 crore, to prevent future incidents.

We have sourced it from Karthik, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), IFS, Nilambur, North Malappuram, Kerala.