Mission Madukkarai Maharaj, the translocating of the rogue elephant which had bene bothering the villagers for the past one year, is all set to begin with the arrival of the fourth Kumki (domesticated elephant), Kaleem, tomorrow.

Three Kumkis – Vijay, Paari, and Sujay – have already arrived. The rogue elephant, which strays into the village once every week, has not been seen since June 8, when the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, ordered its translocation, bowing to pressure from general public, farmers, and politicians.

The forest officials however have their own apprehensions. Tranquilising the elephant could result in the death of the animal due to suffocation. Once tranquilised, it takes at least 15 to 20 minutes for the animal to become unconscious. Any fall due to drowsiness in the intervening period may cause death.

If the elephant fell into a water pond, it could die of drowning. Suffocation may occur if the trunk got struck under its body, leading to death. Another reason for the breathlessness and death was falling flat on its chest.

However, the modus operandi will be decided after consultations with top district, forest and police officials, who want the animal to be trained and domesticated.