Sat Jan 10 18:14:42 UTC 2026: # Elephant Herd Causes Crop Damage in Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh Border Region
The Story:
On January 10, 2026, forest teams in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu are monitoring a herd of 13 elephants, including four infants, that have been camping in the Panamdangi Reserve Forest (RF) near Katpadi, along the Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh border. The elephant herd has reportedly been destroying farmland, particularly banana and coconut groves, in areas like Rajiv Gandhi Nagar and Indira Nagar near Panamadangi RF. District officials are taking measures to track the elephants and prevent further crop damage, including the use of drones and increased patrols.
Key Points:
- 13 elephants, including four infants, are located in Panamdangi Reserve Forest near Katpadi.
- The herd has been damaging banana and coconut crops in nearby villages.
- The elephants migrate annually from the Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh for food.
- District Forest Officer T.K. Ashok Kumar is working to restrict the herd’s movement.
- Collector V.R. Subbulaxmi has directed the use of drones to track the elephants.
- Approximately one acre of banana plantation was destroyed.
Key Takeaways:
- Annual elephant migrations from Andhra Pradesh to Tamil Nadu forests lead to human-wildlife conflict.
- Crop raiding by elephants poses a significant threat to farmers’ livelihoods in the affected regions.
- The district administration is employing technology like drones to manage the situation.
- Coordination between forest officials, police, and local residents is crucial for preventing further damage.
- Compensation for crop damage and preventive measures are essential for mitigating the conflict.
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