Dear Madam,

 

I am writing to you with deep concern about the recent events unfolding in Idukki, Kerala regarding the translocation of an elephant named 'Arikomban'.

The elephant was recently relocated from its natural habitat in Singakandam forest ( Chinnakanal, Idukki) where he had been living for over 30 years,  to Periyar Tiger Reserve, as per the orders of the high court. However, there are serious concerns about the welfare of Arikomban due to the forest department's history of recent unsuccessful captures resulting in the deaths of a bear and an elephant.

 

The process of relocating Arikomban involved administering heavy doses of tranquilizers and using four kumki elephants, resulting in severe wounds to his trunk during the 12-hour journey. Although it is said that he has been released in the inner forest area with a GPS collar tied around his neck, no visuals have been released about his current condition after relocation. The heavy sedation and untreated injury on his trunk add to the uncertainty and anxiety about the current situation. If the wound on his trunk isn't treated promptly, he may not be able to eat or drink water, which could result in serious health issues.Also, the court has been made aware that Arikomban's vision is impaired in one of his eyes.

 

Furthermore, the elephants in Idukki are already struggling with severe food shortages, and the residential area in the elephant trail has reduced the available food and water sources for these majestic creatures. This has led to elephant-human conflict. It is worth noting that the news channels in Kerala claimed that Arikomban has killed more than ten people, which is not even verified or confirmed by the Forest department of Kerala, and nobody has witnessed him killing anyone.

 

As an animal lover, I am appealing to you to take urgent action to protect Arikomban and track his whereabouts. The forest officers involved in this situation must be instructed to take all necessary precautions to safeguard the well-being of Arikomban and other elephants in the forest. The situation demands a prompt and effective response to ensure the safety and well-being of these magnificent animals.

Moreover, there are more than 50 elephants in the Chinnakanal area. The Kerala High Court has expressed that Arikomban's translocation is not a solution to the ongoing man-animal conflicts. Instead, it emphasized the need for long-term measures to address the problems created by the human race.

 

Therefore, I urge you to intervene immediately to protect Arikomban and other animals in Idukki's forest. I would be grateful if you could keep me updated on any additional information or support I can provide to address this urgent matter.

 

Thank you for your attention and consideration in this matter.

 

Sincerely,

 

[Vishnu]