Idukki (Kerala), March 31 Panic gripped the town of Marayoor in this hill district on Tuesday after an Indian Gaur, having wandered from a nearby forest, caused widespread damage by entering buildings and disrupting the area, officials said.
The animal entered several buildings, including the local panchayat office and a hotel, leaving a trail of destruction, sources said.
The sudden appearance of the Gaur triggered chaos, with people running in all directions to escape its charge, witnesses said.
Two people are believed to have been injured after falling while running, police said.
Television footage showed the agitated animal charging out of a building as frightened residents scrambled for safety.
In some scenes, people were seen cautiously searching for the Gaur inside an office complex, while a visibly terrified man took refuge on a parapet within the building.
Police personnel said a Rapid Response Team (RRT) rushed to the area after being alerted by residents.
A police official said efforts are underway to locate the animal, and it is suspected to have returned to the forests.