Temple elephant may be shifted to Top Slip

TIRUCHI: The restive male elephant of Samayapuram Sri Mariamman Temple is likely to be shifted to the elephant camp at Top Slip.

The authorities are reportedly awaiting a Government Order in this regard.

The 18-year-old Mariappan has been portraying signs of `juvenile amuck' over the past few years, and the temple authorities recently sought the State Government's permission to hand it over to the Forest Department.

A team of veterinary experts and forest officials from Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Srirangam and Samayapuram have been keeping a close watch on the health of the elephant, and stepping up special veterinary care such as de-worming, and administering energy tablets

"The animal will be sent to Top Slip once the Government Order is issued," official sources told The Hindu here on Sunday.

Though the behaviour of Mariappan turned normal owing to constant care over the past one-and-a-half years, the temple authorities are not prepared to take chances.

They are concerned over the safety of the devotees.

"We are sure the animal also would be happier in a herd at Top Slip," sources said.

"There is a new word I have neve heard before, "juvenile amuck!!!!"