In Karaikudi, monkeys have been creating significant problems for villagers in areas such as Pallathur Kanadukathan, Iluppakkudi, Ariyakkudi, Matthur, and Athangudi. These monkeys are moving in groups, stealing items from homes and shops, leading to considerable damage and mental distress among the residents.
Villagers have raised their concerns, stating that not only are their belongings being damaged, but they are also experiencing stress and anxiety due to the constant threat of the monkeys. Despite lodging complaints with the forest department, there has been no action taken so far. The villagers have been advised to contact individuals who specialize in trapping monkeys, but the cost of such services is high, with some demanding amounts up to several thousand rupees.
In some villages, residents have been told to pay money in order to get monkeys trapped. The forest department, on the other hand, has mentioned that there have been many requests across the district for monkey trapping. The trapping process will proceed based on the seniority of the complaints. They also stated that delays in the allocation of funds for trapping are affecting the speed of the operations. As a result, some people are resorting to private services for trapping monkeys, but the forest department clarified that any monkeys trapped through private methods must be released in forested areas under their supervision.
