Forest Department removes ripe jackfruits from trees near residential areas in Gudalur to reduce human–wildlife interactions

The Gudalur Forest Division has begun removing ripe jackfruits from trees located in high human-elephant interface areas, as they seek to discourage animals from entering human settlements in search of food.

The removal of the fruits was being undertaken based on the instruction of the Field Director of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) and the Divisional Forest Officer (Gudalur) in Cherambadi forest range. The fruits were removed only from trees that were near or close to residential areas. “This is being done with the prior consent of the respective landowners and concerned individuals, and with the assistance of the Forest Department,” a statement from the Gudalur Forest Division said.