The Gudalur forest division has assured residents in and around Padanthorai village that steps will be taken to prevent entry of elephants into human settlements, following a protest staged by villagers on Wednesday.

The Forest Department stated that areas including Padanthorai, Kambadi, Mutty muchi, Anjukunnu, Devarsholai, Kaniyanvayal and surrounding tribal hamlets are being monitored closely, and that based on the appeals made by local residents, steps would be taken to establish elephant-proof trenches and barriers wherever necessary.

“Additionally, a village-level coordination committee will be formed. This committee will include local residents, youth, tribal people, village panchayat representatives, and frontline forest staff. The purpose of the committee is to assess the elephant movement in the area and propose scientifically informed, proactive solutions to minimise future conflicts,” a press release from the department stated.

Further, the committee will identify areas where elephants frequently enter human habitats and recommend the establishment of new barriers. The department assured residents that pre-emptive and appropriate measures will be taken to prevent any negative interactions caused by elephant movements.

Over the last few months, the department has deployed forest staff as well as thermal imaging drones to keep tabs on elephant movement in areas surrounding human settlements in the Gudalur forest division.