Tragic Elephant Attack Claims Life of Young Mahout at Kerala Rehabilitation Centre
In a devastating incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, a 28-year-old mahout was killed after being brutally attacked by an elephant at the Kappukad elephant rehabilitation centre in Kottoor, Thiruvananthapuram, on Wednesday morning. The victim, identified as Vishnu, a native of Balaramapuram, was performing his routine duties when the tragedy unfolded.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Vishnu was bathing a nine-year-old elephant named Manu in the river at the centre when the animal suddenly exhibited uncharacteristic aggression. According to eyewitness accounts, the elephant struck Vishnu forcefully with its trunk, dragged him across the water, and then pushed him underwater, preventing any immediate rescue attempts.
Other mahouts and staff members present at the scene rushed to help, but the elephant's aggressive stance blocked their approach. It was only after the animal was brought under control that Vishnu could be retrieved from the water. Sadly, he had sustained severe injuries and was declared dead at the scene, marking a profound loss for his family and colleagues.
Background of the Mahout and the Elephant
Vishnu had been caring for Manu for the past two years, after the elephant was brought to the rehabilitation centre from the forests in Nilambur. He had been working at the centre as a temporary staff member since 2016 and had recently been included in the final list of candidates for appointment as a permanent mahout, a position he was eagerly anticipating.
Arun Kumar, the veterinary officer at the centre, suggested that the elephant's aggressive behaviour might be linked to it approaching the musth phase, a periodic condition in male elephants characterized by increased testosterone levels and heightened aggression. This phase can make even well-trained elephants unpredictable and dangerous.
Aftermath and Official Response
Following the incident, Vishnu's body was shifted to the Government Medical College Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram for a postmortem examination. It will be handed over to his family thereafter. He is survived by his parents, Biju and Kalayate, and a sister, leaving behind a grieving family and a community in mourning.
In response to the tragedy, authorities have announced that the Kappukad elephant rehabilitation centre will remain closed to the public until further orders. This decision aims to ensure safety and allow for a thorough review of protocols and elephant behaviour management practices at the facility.
The incident highlights the inherent risks faced by mahouts and wildlife caretakers, even in controlled environments like rehabilitation centres. It underscores the need for continuous training, advanced safety measures, and deeper understanding of animal behaviour to prevent such heartbreaking events in the future.
