Kerala Forest dept. launches probe after Tamil Nadu team operates drone camera inside Periyar Tiger Reserve without permission
The Kerala Forest Department is investigating the unauthorized use of a drone by a group of Tamil Nadu politicians inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The incident occurred during a water release ceremony at the Mullaperiyar dam, leading to a formal complaint by Kerala officials.
Why it matters
This highlights the sensitive nature of inter-state environmental regulations and the strict enforcement of protected area protocols.
The Kerala Forest department has launched a probe after a group, including Tamil Nadu MLAs, reportedly operated a drone camera inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Thekkady and posted the visuals on social media.
According to officials, Tamil Nadu released water from the Mullaperiyar dam for farming and drinking water purposes on August 8, 2026. The ceremony was attended by Cumbum MLA Jagannath Misra, Periyakulam MLA G. Sabari Iyngaran, and others. During the event, the team used drone cameras to capture footage of the Mullaperiyar dam, canal, and the surrounding forest. The issue came to light after the Periyakulam MLA posted the drone video on his Instagram handle.
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