Calves along with Arikomban, despite bursting crackers could not be separated; mission Arikomban today itself, says minister

IDUKKI: The mission to capture the aggressive Arikomban has started. The mission started Friday morning at 4 am. The authorities informed that the weather is favorable and that the forest department is fully prepared for the mission.

Arikomban was found near the waste pit near the Chinnakanal cement bridge. Along with Arikomban, a group of calves were also there. Despite bursting firecrackers, Arikomban could not be separated. The elephant is standing in a place where it is difficult for a vehicle to reach. Kumkis have been brought there.

Meantime, Minister A K Saseendran informed that Mission Arikomban will be completed today itself. He clarified that the weather is favorable and it is a secret where the tusker is being translocated.

Under the leadership of chief veterinary surgeon Dr Arun Zacharia, Rapid Response Team (RRT) from Muthanga and more than 150 officials from various departments, including six doctors, are in the area.

All efforts are being taken to complete the mission in four hours. As a precautionary measure, prohibitory orders have been imposed in Chinnakanal panchayat and in the first, second and third wards of Santhanpara from 4 am till the mission is completed.