Two persons escaped with minor injuries after a wild elephant attacked them while they were travelling on a two-wheeler near Maharajapuram on the Thalavadi–Thalamalai Road here on Sunday night.

According to the Forest Department, Basavanna and Chithappa, both from Chikkahalli village, were riding towards Thalamalai around 9.30 p.m. when a herd of wild elephants emerged from the Maharajapuram forest and began crossing the road. One of the elephants charged at the two-wheeler, damaging the vehicle. The two men abandoned the vehicle and ran to safety. They sustained minor injuries and were rescued by passers-by, who shifted them from the spot.

Residents said elephants have been venturing out of the forests more frequently in recent weeks because of the prevailing dry conditions. The animals have been crossing roads and entering agricultural fields in search of fodder and water, leading to an increase in human-elephant encounters.

The Forest Department has advised motorists using forest roads, particularly during the night, to exercise caution and avoid approaching wild elephants.

Published - August 03, 2026 07:23 pm IST