Rising Elephant Movement Triggers Fear in Rural Areas
Key Points:
- Elderly man killed in elephant attack in Chandil forest area
- Villagers blame forest department for lack of action
- Herd of six elephants active in area for one month
JAMSHEDPUR – A 60-year-old man was killed after a wild elephant attack in Chandil’s rural forest area on Saturday morning.
The incident occurred in Saparum village under Kukdu block. The victim was identified as Radha Tanti, a resident of Tanti Tola.
According to reports, he had gone towards the forest early morning. However, he suddenly encountered a herd of elephants.
Meanwhile, the herd consisted of around six elephants roaming nearby areas. They attacked him immediately, causing his death on the spot.
After the incident, panic spread across the village. Moreover, residents expressed anger against the forest department.
Officials from police and forest teams reached the location soon. However, villagers protested before authorities calmed them down.
The body was later sent for postmortem examination. Meanwhile, officials provided an immediate relief of Rs 50,000.
Authorities assured that remaining compensation would be paid later. However, villagers remained dissatisfied with the response.
Residents stated that elephants have stayed in the region for a month. Moreover, they have frequently entered villages and damaged crops.
Despite repeated complaints, no strict action was taken. In contrast, locals said the situation has now become life-threatening.
Human-elephant conflict has increased in Chandil and nearby forest regions. Moreover, such incidents often occur during crop seasons.
Experts say shrinking forest areas push elephants into villages. Meanwhile, lack of early warning systems worsens risks for residents.
