Daijiworld Media Network - Wayanad

Wayanad, May 26: A woman was killed and her husband sustained injuries after a wild elephant attacked them while they were travelling on a scooter in Wayanad on Tuesday, police said.

The deceased has been identified as Jessy, a resident of Puthumala. She was travelling with her husband Shaji when the incident occurred at Kalladi near Meppadi.

Police said the elephant suddenly charged at the couple, killing Jessy on the spot and injuring Shaji.

Forest department officials and police rushed to the site soon after the incident and initiated further procedures.

The area has witnessed repeated cases of human–animal conflict, with locals long demanding stronger safety measures to prevent such incidents.

Authorities announced an immediate financial assistance of ?5 lakh for the family of the deceased. They also said that one member of the family will be provided temporary government employment.

Wayanad Divisional Forest Officer Ashik Ali said steps will be taken to drive away the elephant and strengthen preventive measures such as fencing and other safety arrangements to reduce future incidents.

Officials said a high-level meeting involving the forest minister, agriculture minister, and senior officials will be held in Wayanad on the 30th of this month to review the situation.