Wild elephant rescued after three-hour struggle in Coimbatore

An elderly female wild elephant, which had strayed out of the forest near Kuppanur village close to Madampatti in Coimbatore district, was rescued by Forest Department personnel after being trapped in slush for nearly three hours on Sunday.
The elephant had entered agricultural fields in Kuppanur village over the past three days, causing damage to standing crops. Early on Sunday morning, it moved towards the KRS Canal area near residential houses.
On receiving information, Forest Department officials rushed to the spot and attempted to drive the animal back towards the forest using a jeep. Due to its advanced age, the elephant was unable to move swiftly and walked slowly through the area.
While passing through a private garden, it attempted to cross a shallow well that had been partially filled with sand and garbage by the landowner.
Though the surface appeared firm, it was slushy underneath.
As the elephant stepped into the filled well, all four legs got stuck in the thick mud.
Despite repeated attempts to free itself, the animal collapsed from exhaustion and lay helplessly in the slush.
On instructions from senior officials, three poclain machines and a small crane were brought to the spot.
The rescue operation began around 8 a.m., with earth movers carefully removing the mud surrounding the animal. After nearly three hours of continuous effort, Forest Department personnel successfully rescued the elephant. Veterinarians administered treatment, fed the animal and provided glucose.
As it was unable to stand on its own, a belt was tied around its abdomen and it was gently lifted using a poclain machine.
Senior forest officials are assessing whether the elephant should be shifted to the Sadivayal Elephant Camp for further care or released back into the forest.