Sat May 31 13:23:47 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Plastic Waste Threatens Elephants at Marudhamalai Temple**
**Coimbatore, India – May 31, 2025** – Following the recent death of an elephant due to plastic ingestion near the Marudhamalai temple in Coimbatore, environmentalists are urgently calling for the area to be declared a plastic-free zone. Concerns are mounting over the impact of waste on wildlife.
Marudhamalai is part of a recognized elephant corridor, and the animals frequently traverse the temple stairways and surrounding hills. Conservationists warn that even small pieces of plastic can be fatal to elephants and other animals.
“Elephants are regularly spotted around the temple and its stairways,” said conservationist K. Mohanraj. “Even a small piece of plastic can be harmful. On festival days, thousands visit the temple and the existing waste management system is inadequate. More bins should be placed along the route to the temple, and waste must be cleared regularly.”
Another conservationist said, “Plastic does not degrade easily, and when ingested, it causes severe internal injuries or death to elephants and other animals. Declaring the temple a plastic-free zone and conducting regular awareness drives among devotees are urgent steps.”
Conservationists are urging a ban on plastics at the temple. They propose the establishment of check points at the foot of the hill to inspect vehicles and bags for plastic materials.
A senior temple official said that roughly 200 kg of waste is generated daily. He also stated that steps are being taken such as advising against the use of plastics, provision of signage and additional staff during festivals. A new road is under construction to facilitate waste transport.
“We have put up signboards advising devotees not to use plastics and ask them to take back plastic bags. A 20-member staff team is maintaining the temple surroundings,” the official said.
Temple authorities report close coordination with the Coimbatore Corporation for daily waste collection. In addition, a new vehicle will be procured for transporting waste from the hilltop. A master plan is also in development, which will include provisions for elephant movement and construction of a watch tower.
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