Muttikomban Captured: Wayanad Tusker Moved for Treatment
Muttikomban, a problem elephant, was captured and moved for treatment.
Top Summary
- What happened: The tusker TT-1, also known as Muttikomban, was tranquillized and moved to Muthanga elephant camp.
- Why it matters: The elephant's trunk injury prevents it from foraging, posing risks to both the animal and nearby communities.
- What changes for people: The elephant will be treated at the camp, potentially reducing conflict with humans in the short term.
- Who is affected: Residents of Sulthan Bathery, the Forest Department, and animal welfare advocates.
Muttikomban's Capture and Relocation
The notorious Thathur tusker (TT-1), Muttikomban, was successfully tranquillized by the Forest Department's Rapid Response Team (RRT) on April 3rd. The operation concluded with the elephant's relocation to a specially constructed kraal at the Muthanga elephant camp around 11 am.
Muttikomban suffers from a trunk injury that hinders its ability to collect fodder. The decision to capture and treat the elephant aims to improve its health and reduce its reliance on farmland for food.
Treatment and Future Plans
South Wayanad DFO Ajit K Raman stated that the technical committee recommended keeping the elephant at the Muthanga camp for treatment. The elephant will be fitted with a radio collar.
"A meeting of the technical committee had recommended to the Chief Wildlife Warden that the animal be kept at the Muthanga elephant camp for treatment,"
Raman said in a press statement.
The Forest Department will determine whether to release Muttikomban back into the wild or keep it at the camp after recovery. The Kerala High Court was previously informed that the department intended to relocate the jumbo away from human settlements.
'Good' Friday Relief for Forest Personnel
Over 100 Forest Department personnel breathed a sigh of relief after Muttikomban was tranquillized and transported. A team of trackers had been monitoring the animal in the '50 acres' area of the Thathur section of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Dr. Arun Zachariah, Chief Veterinary Officer, headed the veterinary team that darted the elephant. Forest officials reported that the tracking team monitored the animal's movements continuously for 24 days.
Community Involvement and Concerns
Karunakaran Vellakkettu, a local resident, stated that forest department trackers received active support from local people. He suggested the capture could have been faster with earlier action.
He expressed concerns that a High Court case filed by an NGO might have delayed the mission. There were fears it might hinder the capture efforts.
Crowd's Reaction to Muttikomban's Capture
A mixed crowd of both jubilant and angry individuals gathered to witness Muttikomban's transfer. People assembled at various points along the route to the Muthanga elephant camp.
Rumors circulated about the veterinary team releasing the elephant after radio-collaring. The trunk injury provided justification for keeping the elephant in the kraal for treatment.
The Forest department initiated the capture after the tusker killed a farmer.
What to Watch Next
The Forest Department will monitor Muttikomban's recovery and decide on its long-term fate. Public and court scrutiny will likely continue to influence the department's decisions.