Krishnagiri: Low-lying electric wires along a migration route in Thadikal area in the Denkanikottai reserve forest are posing a threat to the lives of elephants.The reserve forest is home to more than 50 elephants, which have started migrating to Chinnaru reservoir area near Thadikal in the Cauvery North Wildlife Sanctuary for water and food, which are now in short supply in Denkanikottai forest owing to the current severe drought. Pointing to low-lying electric wires near Thadikal Muniyappan Temple on the migration path, M Dhinakaran, a local villager, said, “The wires are at a height that could be touched with hands. Elephants passing through the stretch could easily come in contact with the live wires, causing electrocution.” According to the villagers, elephants often visit the Chinnaru reservoir area in large numbers. Pointing out that the low-lying electric wires had caused elephant deaths in the past, they said the steps should be taken to address the issue. “The forest department should inspect the low-lying electric wires and take action to correct the height. The electricity board should also extend help,” said another villager. When alerted, electricity department officials assured that they would look into the issue after obtaining necessary permission from the forest department.
