Wild Animals Pose Threat to Drivers on Chozhiyakoot-Milpalam Road

The road connecting Chozhiyakoot to Milpalam, located in a hilly region, has been overtaken by dense forest on both sides. This has posed a serious threat to both drivers and pedestrians, who are now fearful of encountering wild animals. The road is under the jurisdiction of the Kulathoorpuzha Panchayat. Locals report frequent sightings of elephants, bison, and deer roaming in groups. The dense undergrowth provides cover for wild animals, raising concerns about potential attacks. Earlier this year, a newspaper delivery person was injured after being surrounded by a herd of bison while delivering newspapers in the early hours. Following the incident, the forest department initiated daily patrols and drove away bison found near the road. However, the escalating encroachment of the forest has exacerbated the situation and raised concerns about increased encounters with wild animals. Those who rely on the road for daily work, including newspaper delivery personnel, fishermen, milkmen, and rubber tappers, are facing significant hardship. Residents are urging the Kulathoorpuzha Panchayat to address the issue urgently and clear the overgrown vegetation to ensure the safety of the community.