The Forest department on Saturday suspended five officers, including a section forest officer, in connection with an incident at the Konni Elephant Camp where a four-year-old boy lost his life after a concrete pole fell on him.
“One section forest officer and four beat forest officers have been placed under suspension pending further inquiry, following a preliminary investigation that pointed to negligence,” said a senior official. The action was taken on the directive of Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran.
According to official sources, the Divisional Forest Officer of Konni and the Range Forest Officer in charge of the camp are also likely to be transferred.
The preliminary inquiry report revealed serious lapses, including the failure to remove the concrete poles, which were unmaintained and the absence of any strength testing of the structures, .
Meanwhile, the Chief Conservator of Forests (Southern Circle) is expected to submit a detailed report on the incident to the Minister by Monday.
The victim, Abhiram, a resident of Kadampanad, near Adoor, was visiting the camp with his family on Friday when the accident occurred. Reports indicate that the child was playing near the four-foot-high concrete pole when it suddenly collapsed and struck him. Abhiram was immediately taken to a nearby hospital and later transferred to another facility in Pathanamthitta. He, however succumbed to his injuries later.
Published – April 19, 2025 07:49 pm IST
