WAYANAD: The wild elephant that entered Mananthavady has been remaining in the populated area for around five and a half hours. A prohibitory order has been issued in the region. Strict restrictions have been imposed in the region. Shops have been closed and people have been advised not to gather in the region. Higher officials, including the District Collector and Northern CCF KS Deepa, are present at the spot.

Forest Minister AK Saseendran said that the situation is being monitored and if necessary, the elephant will be captured after tranquillizing it. He added that since the radio collar-fitted elephant belongs to Karnataka, Wayanad officials will talk to the Collector from Karnataka and take necessary action.

"Even after so many hours, the authorities are not doing anything to shift the elephant. This is causing great concern among people. There was a delay in announcing the curfew. This delay was caused by the police, revenue department and forest department. The curfew should have been announced when the elephant reached the court premises in the morning. Not only did they make the delay, but also did not take action to close the roads. Thousands of children came to schools at this time. Many children who left home were stranded on the way. Parents were very worried. The elephant would have reached the premises of the Medical College if it had gone another 50 meters. Major disasters would have occurred here due to the lapses on the part of the officials. The authorities should move the elephant from the area after tranquillizing it," the locals said.