In Vadavalli, Coimbatore, pilgrims were delayed as wild elephants occupied the steps leading to the renowned Marudhamalai Temple. Forest officials intervened, escorting the elephants back to the forest.
Coimbatore: The tranquil vicinity of Marudhamalai Temple, located in Vadavalli, witnessed unexpected visitors yesterday when wild elephants were spotted on the temple steps, temporarily halting pilgrim movement. These steps are one of the two main pathways for devotees, the other being a road for vehicles.
Devotees were held up for about two hours until the forest department personnel arrived at the scene and managed to usher the elephants back into the adjoining forests. Given the temple's proximity to dense forest areas, such incidents are not uncommon, especially in the evenings.
Following this event, the forest department has put restrictions on temple visits post 6 PM, citing the frequent movement of elephants and other wildlife in the area as a safety precaution. These measures aim to ensure the safety of both the pilgrims and the wildlife.
Devotees were held up for about two hours until the forest department personnel arrived at the scene and managed to usher the elephants back into the adjoining forests. Given the temple's proximity to dense forest areas, such incidents are not uncommon, especially in the evenings.
Following this event, the forest department has put restrictions on temple visits post 6 PM, citing the frequent movement of elephants and other wildlife in the area as a safety precaution. These measures aim to ensure the safety of both the pilgrims and the wildlife.