Elderly Woman Injured by Illegal Electric Trap in Palakkad

An elderly woman in Palakkad, Kerala, was severely injured after coming into contact with an illegal electric trap set for wild boars on her property in Vaniyamkulam. The victim, identified as 65-year-old Malathi, was found lying in her compound by a relative, who then alerted neighbors and local residents. She sustained serious injuries to her left hand and was quickly shifted to the hospital for treatment.

The trap was an illegal live wire setup intended to deter or catch wild boars, a method that has become increasingly common in Kerala due to frequent crop raids by wildlife. Police have launched an investigation to determine who was responsible for installing the trap. In this particular case, local reports indicate that the trap was set up on the victim’s own property, but it remains under investigation whether she or someone else installed it. The incident is part of a disturbing trend in Kerala where similar illegal electric traps have recently caused fatalities, including the deaths of a farmer in Alappuzha and a teenager in Nilambur, which have sparked political and social debate in the state.

The use of illegal electric fencing or traps is a criminal offense in India, as it endangers both humans and animals. Local authorities are under pressure to crack down on such practices, especially after a series of recent tragedies. Community members have expressed growing concern over safety, as these traps pose risks not only to wildlife but also to unsuspecting residents and children.

The rise in such incidents reflects the tension between rural communities and wildlife, particularly wild boars, which frequently damage crops and property. While some residents resort to illegal measures out of desperation, these actions have led to severe injuries and loss of life, highlighting the need for more effective and legal wildlife management solutions.

Read more at: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/elderly-woman-injured-from-electric-trap-set-for-wild-boars-in-keralas-palakkad/article69775965.ece

CATEGORIES
Share This

COMMENTS

Disqus ( )