Kannur, 27 Feb (H.S.): A 28-year-old man was killed in a wild elephant attack in Aralam Farm in Kannur district in the early hours of Friday, triggering fresh concerns over recurring human-wildlife conflict in the region.

The deceased has been identified as Aneesh, son of Soman, a resident of the 10th Block of Aralam Farm. The incident occurred around 4 a.m. when Aneesh reportedly stepped out of his house. According to preliminary information, a wild elephant that had strayed into the residential area attacked him without warning. He is believed to have suffered severe injuries, including fatal trampling to the chest.

Hearing his cries, local residents rushed to the spot and immediately shifted him to the Peravoor Taluk Hospital. However, despite efforts by medical staff, his life could not be saved. Doctors had advised that he be referred to the Government Medical College Hospital at Pariyaram for advanced treatment, but he succumbed to his injuries before he could be transferred.

The body has been kept at the mortuary of Pariyaram Medical College Hospital for post-mortem examination.

Aralam Farm, which borders forest areas, has witnessed repeated incidents of wild elephant incursions in recent years. Residents have frequently raised concerns about safety, especially during early morning and late night hours when wild animals often venture into human settlements in search of food.

This latest tragedy has once again highlighted the urgent need for strengthened preventive measures, including better fencing, early warning systems and coordinated action by forest authorities to prevent further loss of human lives in the area.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman