Massive protest seeking to end jumbo menace in Devashola

The protest was organised on behalf of the traders’ association, political parties and welfare associations. They sought the Forest and Revenue Department officials to find a solution to the frequent intrusion of wild elephants in human settlements. “Wild elephants have been camping in 11 human settlements including Devashola and Padandurai for the last few months,” the protesters claimed. 

Earlier, the villagers announced about staging a stir, following which the Forest and Revenue Department authorities held talks but failed to reach a consensus. Hence, the villagers in association with trader bodies and political parties organized the protest led by Traders Association president Muhammed Ayub. 

“Elephant attacks have claimed many lives in the region. Villagers are in fear over the constant attacks by wild elephants. Even students are unable to go to schools. The government should take efforts to protect public from such man-animal conflicts,” Muhammed Ayub said.

Shops from Gudalur to Sultan Bathery Road were shut down on Tuesday until 5 pm. The protesters also threatened to intensify their agitation if no action was taken against the issue. A large number of police personnel were deployed in the village.