Frequent movement of jumbos making villagers anxious

 

 

 

RESIDENTS of villages located on the border of Saraipali and Basna blocks of district Mahasamund are forced to spend sleepless night due to frequent movements of a herd of 25 elephants, consisting of males, females and calves.

This herd of jumbos has reportedly left a trail of damage, affecting the standing crops in fields of several farmers in the Potapara village of the Saraipali block. According to local forest sources, these elephants have been wandering in the forest region situated between the villages of Tipa in the Basna block and Potapara under Saraipali block since August 23. To ensure safety, villagers have been advised against venturing into the forest area, with announcements being made in Potapara village and nearby areas.

 

In the wake of prevailing situation, a vigilant team from the forest department, comprising four constables, six watchmen and a deputy ranger, has been closely monitoring the elephants. Despite these efforts, the presence of the elephants’ herd, particularly in the Avalachakka area, has sparked a sense of panic among the surrounding villagers.

Forest officials are working to keep the villagers informed and are cautioning them to avoid unnecessary visits to the forest. Santosh Paikra, Deputy Ranger of the forest department, reported that the elephants tend to descend from the forest during the nighttime, causing damage to approximately 4 to 5 acres of farmland belonging to multiple farmers. The presence of these elephants for the past two nights has heightened fear among residents of Tipa, Potapara, Loharin, Deepa and nearby villages.

 

Both Tipa and Potapara are situated in close proximity to the forest, making them particularly vulnerable to the elephant presence. Villagers have taken it upon themselves to keep watch over their surroundings to ensure the safety of their families. The prolonged stay of the elephants in the forest area has raised concerns about potential threats to human life and property. Local residents recall a similar incident a month ago when a herd of elephants had entered the Lumber area and later returned to Barnawapara. However, the same herd is causing distress once again, refusing to move either forward or backward. Speculations suggest that the herd might eventually head towards the Gomarda Sanctuary before returning to Barnawapara. Presently, a team of around 8 to 10 personnel from the Forest Department is diligently monitoring the elephants’ movements.