Elephant Encounters Surge Near Marudhamalai Statue Site

The Madras High Court has been informed by the Forest Department that wild elephants emerged from forest areas at the Marudhamalai foothills 119 times during 2025. This submission was made in response to a plea opposing the Marudhamalai Subramaniaswamy Temple's plan for a 184-foot Lord Murugan statue near the forest boundary. The court previously suggested the temple administration reconsider the statue's location, situated in an eco-sensitive zone, and explore alternative sites.

During a recent hearing, the court noted a proposal for a site 431 meters from the forest boundary. Judges emphasized the importance of selecting a location at least 500 meters away to prevent human-animal conflict and protect the environment. An amici curiae report highlighted existing anthropogenic pressures, including waste dumping, and projected a significant increase in visitors, from 4,000 on weekends to 10,000, if the statue is installed.

The report also noted frequent elephant presence in the area and a recent elephant death due to plastic waste ingestion. The rescue of a black panther cub near the proposed site further underscored the area's rich wildlife. The amici curiae concluded that the statue, intended as a tourist attraction, would likely intensify existing conflicts and environmental burdens.