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| Photo Credit: K K Mustafah
A 65-year-old man was killed in a wild elephant attack in Vaisyeri near Athirappilly in Kerala in the early hours of Saturday, triggering widespread anger among residents and a hartal call in the region.
The deceased has been identified as Mohanan Pullerkattu. The incident occurred around 2.45 am when the elephant strayed close to his residence.
According to locals, Mohanan stepped out into the courtyard after hearing neighbours raising alarm about the elephant’s presence. In the darkness, the animal suddenly charged at him, fatally injuring him. He was rushed to Chalakudy Taluk Hospital after the elephant moved away from the area, but doctors could not save his life.
Residents say the area has been witnessing frequent elephant intrusions, with several lives lost in recent months. Locals claim this is the sixth such death within a year, pointing to a growing human-wildlife conflict.
They also alleged that elephants have been repeatedly breaching solar-powered electric fences and entering inhabited areas. “Such incidents have become routine. Immediate and effective measures are needed to prevent further loss of life,” residents said.
In protest against the killing, a hartal has been called in Athirappilly on Saturday. As part of the agitation, protesters have announced a blockade of the Chalakudy–Anamala interstate highway at 10 am.
Published – May 30, 2026 09:40 am IST
