Wild Boar Attack Leaves Two Women Workers Injured in Idukki's Nedumkandam
A terrifying wild boar attack resulted in serious injuries to two women agricultural workers on Thursday afternoon near Nedumkandam in Idukki district. The incident has highlighted the ongoing human-wildlife conflict in the region.
Details of the Attack and Victims
The injured women have been identified as Mini Shaji, 56, of Valiyathovala Ezhapparambil, and Bincy Binu of Vazhipparambil. Both were working in agricultural fields when the attack occurred at approximately 1:30 PM.
The incident took place at the boundary of a local farmer's agricultural land in Valiyathovala, where a wild boar had reportedly become trapped in a wire fence. Acting on information from concerned residents, officials from the forest department promptly reached the location to assess the situation.
Escalation of the Incident
However, soon after the forest department officials arrived at the scene, the agitated boar managed to break free from the wire fence. The animal then charged into a nearby farm where Mini Shaji and Bincy Binu were working.
According to eyewitness sources, the wild boar first knocked down Mini Shaji and then bit her severely on the back. The animal dragged her several feet before other workers intervened and managed to chase it away. Mini sustained serious injuries to her back and limbs in the brutal attack.
Bincy Binu suffered injuries to her leg after being struck by the charging animal during the chaotic incident.
Emergency Response and Medical Treatment
Mini Shaji was immediately rushed in a forest department vehicle to St. John's Hospital for emergency medical treatment. Her condition was reported as serious but stable following initial treatment.
Bincy Binu sought medical attention at the Nedumkandam Taluk Hospital for her leg injuries. Medical staff confirmed she received treatment for bruises and trauma from the impact.
Growing Concerns About Human-Wildlife Conflict
This incident has renewed concerns about increasing human-wildlife conflicts in Idukki district, particularly in agricultural areas bordering forest regions. Local residents have reported multiple similar incidents in recent months, with wild animals frequently entering farmlands in search of food.
Forest department officials have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack and are assessing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The department has advised residents in vulnerable areas to exercise caution and report any wildlife sightings immediately.
The attack serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by agricultural workers in regions where human settlements intersect with wildlife habitats. Community leaders are calling for enhanced protection measures and better coordination between agricultural communities and forest authorities.
