The intrusion of wild animals into the villages, which are abutting the reserve forests near Mettur and Kolathur bordering Karnataka State, in search of drinking water is a matter of concern to the local people and the forest personnel alike.
The areas of Kolathur and Palar are situated near the Bargur Reserve Forests on the Western Ghats.
The regular survey taken by the forest personnel has proved the presence of wild animals such as elephants, deer and bear in good number.
The lakes of Karadimaduvu, Saamiyarpallam, Uthukuli, Mariammankoilkadu, Semmalai situated in the reserve forests quench the thirst of the wild animals.
Major parts of reserve forests are reeling under severe drought conditions because of repeated failure of monsoon. The trees have withered.
The severe dry conditions prevailing in the reserve forests have forced the wild animals to intrude into the nearby villages frequently.
The local people say that elephants are regularly visiting the Neethipuram village in search of water.
Wild pigs and deer make regular visit to the villages for water.
The villagers take utmost precaution while proceeding on the roads near the villages particularly during the night hours, fearing that the wild animals may attack them.
