Panic as wild elephants stray into densely populated Payam panchayat in Kannur
The HinduTwo wild elephants that strayed into densely populated areas of Payam panchayat in Irrity taluk triggered panic on Thursday, keeping the rapid response team, Forest department staff, and the police on high alert. Despite repeated efforts, the elephants continued to roam the area in Payam, Kariyal, Vattiyara, and Erumathadam prompting ADM C. Padmachandran Kurup to order a ban on public gatherings in specific wards of Payam, Aralam, and Muzhukkunnu grama panchayats from noon to midnight. Payam Jabar Kadavu resident Saneesh had a narrow escape when a wild elephant charged at him near the driving test ground here. Payam panchayat president P. Rajani said it was the first time elephants were seen in the area, causing widespread panic among residents.