Mon Feb 24 19:00:50 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Govt. Pledges Swift Action After Fatal Elephant Attack
**Kannur, Kerala – February 25, 2025** – Following the tragic death of a tribal couple in a wild elephant attack in Aralam, Kerala’s Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran has announced a series of immediate measures to prevent further incidents. An all-party meeting convened on Monday resulted in decisions to increase the number of Rapid Response Teams, install temporary solar fences funded by the Disaster Management Fund, and clear undergrowth to control wildlife movement around the Aralam farm. The government will also introduce an AI-based system to monitor wildlife activity.
Minister Saseendran acknowledged delays in the long-awaited elephant wall project, citing issues with tree felling, but assured that construction will begin by the end of February and be completed within six months. He also announced that a family member of the victims will receive temporary employment.
Meanwhile, the emergency disaster management committee has approved ₹20 lakh in compensation for the deceased couple’s family, with the first installment of ₹5 lakh to be distributed on Tuesday.
Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee president K. Sudhakaran criticized both the state and central governments for their alleged negligence, citing delays in the elephant wall project and the failure to adequately address undergrowth concerns. He accused the Forest Department of inaction and demanded stronger preventative measures. He also criticized the central government for insufficient funding to prevent human-wildlife conflict.
First Piper 