From inception to a sanctuary
The Elephant Rehabilitation Centre was founded by the Kerala Forest Department in 2007. Its main goal is to provide medical treatment and rehabilitation to injured, orphaned, or abused elephants. The centre has become a well-known symbol of wildlife conservation in Kerala and is one of the few places where elephants are given a real opportunity to rebuild their lives after neglect.
The establishment of the centre happened because of many elephant-related cases and the dire need for a facility that would put its welfare on the pedestal and serve as a remedy for that. The Centre's progress over time is attributed to the support of such conservation organisations, as well as the local community; it has now become a well-outfitted sanctuary that houses several rescued elephants, each with its own touching rescue and recovery story.
Along with that, the centre is also helping the education in which the people will come to know about elephant conservation and the ethical treatment of these huge animals.
Humankind and nature in harmony
The architecture of the Elephant Rehabilitation Centre is designed to fit in with the aura of the forest; thus, neighbours are not disturbed by it.
The heart of the sanctuary comprises extensive, realistic enclaves that aim to replicate the elephants' native homeland, ensuring sufficient areas for walking, indulging in their natural diet, and engaging with other members of the herd. These enclosures are provided with water sources, mud pits and shaded areas, which are the natural habitats of elephants. These enclosures aim to fulfil the physical and psychological needs of the pachyderms.
The centre has modern vet facilities that include separate sections for new arrivals' treatment/quarantine. The elevator centre team of veterinarians is on call 24/7, providing the required medical and rehabilitation assistance for every elephant.
The centre allows visitors to walk conveniently arranged pathways, viewing platforms, and educational exhibits that bring about awareness of the elephants' lives and the efforts of the centre in conservation. The design of the exhibit ensures that people can see the elephants but avoid stressing and discommoding them.