Elephant attack in Keralam’s Piravanthur: VB-G RAM G workers demand RRT surveillance, strict safety audits

Following the tragic death of an 80-year-old woman in a wild elephant attack at Piravanthur in Kollam, VB-G RAM G workers have demanded an immediate escalation in night-time patrolling and Rapid Response Team (RRT) surveillance. Highlighting the systemic gaps in local safety measures, they said that the authorities must take proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable rural labourers working in high-risk zones.

“There should be seamless coordination between local self-government institutions and the Forest department. This is vital to enforce pre-work safety inspections and hazard assessments across all active VB-G RAM G deployment areas, ensuring that no more lives are lost to preventable wildlife incursions,” they said.

Rajamma, a resident of Kadassery, was attacked and instantly killed by a wild elephant while on her way to her work site on Monday. According to eyewitnesses, the animal had suddenly emerged from the nearby forest, grabbed her with its trunk, and hurled her to the ground.