Tue Feb 18 15:43:32 UTC 2025: ## Injured Elephant to Undergo Second Tranquilization in Athirappilly
**Thrissur, Kerala, February 19, 2025** – A team of veterinary experts and forest officials will launch a mission at 6 a.m. today to tranquilize and treat an injured wild elephant in the Athirappilly forest. The operation comes after a previous attempt in January failed to fully heal the elephant’s forehead wound, which is now severely infected.
Chief Veterinary Officer Arun Zachriah will lead the team, utilizing three kumki elephants (trained elephants used to manage wild elephants) and support from a Rapid Response Team from Wayanad. Checkposts have been closed to restrict public access to the area.
The plan involves tranquilizing the weakened elephant and transporting it to a specially constructed kraal (enclosure) at the Abhayaranyam Elephant Camp in Kodanad for treatment. The kraal, built using eucalyptus trees brought from Munnar, is nearing completion. A specially equipped vehicle will transport the elephant to the camp.
The elephant, exhibiting signs of severe infection and repeatedly applying mud to its wound to deter flies, was previously tranquilized and treated on January 24th but subsequently released back into the forest. This second intervention aims to provide the necessary care to ensure its recovery.
First Piper 