Special RRT to become operational at Chinnakkanal within a week
The Kerala Forest Department is establishing a new Rapid Response Team (RRT) in Chinnakkanal to address rising human-wildlife conflicts. This unit follows recent fatal elephant attacks in the region and aims to mitigate risks to local residents and farmers.
Why it matters
Human-wildlife conflict is a critical safety and conservation issue in rural India, requiring proactive management to protect both human lives and animal populations.
A new special Rapid Response Team (RRT) will become operational at Chinnakkanal, under the Devikulam Forest Range, within a week. Keralam Forest Minister Shibu Baby John announced the unit’s formation during his June visit, following the death of Mari, a 36-year-old woman killed in a wild elephant attack at Chinnakkanal on June 8. In line with the announcement, the Forest department redeployed personnel from various offices to establish the new team.
Devikulam Range Officer Arun Kumar E.D. said the special RRT comprises a deputy range officer, two section forest officers, four beat forest officers, and four beat forest assistants. “In addition, a 14-member team of temporary RRT watchers will also be part of the unit. The RRT will be fully operational within a week,” the official said.
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