Repeated wild animal attacks are threatening lives and homes in Edamalakkudy, Munnar. Two people were attacked by a wild gaur recently. One man is seriously injured and is being treated at Idukki Medical College. Farming is the main income for locals in this tribal village. However, elephants and gaurs frequently raid the crops, causing heavy financial losses. Velamma, a tribal farmer, said, “Earlier, wild animals occasionally entered the farms. However, people are now afraid to go outside even during the day for work or to purchase groceries.” Residents even avoid going to the ration shop at nearby Societykudy for food supplies. Another farmer shared, “Many farmers took cash advances from vendors, promising produce in return. Due to the raids, many will fall into debt this year.” Wild elephant herds have been seen roaming through Societykudy and nearby tribal hamlets even during daylight. Munnar Range Officer Biju S. confirmed the crisis. The Forest department has deployed two beat forest officers, an assistant BFO, and five protection watchers in Edamalakkudy. “The department plans to set up a Rapid Response Team (RRT) tool centre in Edamalakkudy to ensure timely assistance and to drive wild animals away from human settlements. We plan to implement this before March of this year,” said Mr. Biju. He also added that the department will give financial help on Monday to the man attacked by the wild gaur.