Movement of wild elephants along the Udumalai–Munnar road has increased בעקבות severe drought conditions in forest areas of the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve, prompting authorities to issue a caution advisory for motorists.
Forest officials said water scarcity in regions including Udumalpet, Amaravathi, Kolumam, and Vandaravu has forced wild animals such as elephants, leopards, deer, and gaurs to migrate in search of food and water. Many of them are moving towards the Amaravathi Dam area.
As a result, frequent sightings of elephants have been reported along the Udumalai–Munnar stretch, a key route connecting Tamil Nadu and Kerala and widely used by tourists. Herds of elephants have been seen camping on both sides of the road and crossing at multiple points.
With vehicular traffic increasing on the route, forest departments of both Tamil Nadu and Kerala have stepped up monitoring to prevent human-wildlife conflict.
Officials have advised motorists to stop their vehicles at a safe distance when elephants are crossing, proceed only after they have moved away, and avoid parking inside forest areas. They have also urged the public not to disturb or provoke wild animals.
