Incessant tusker attacks continue to plague rural areas of East Singhbhum
Incessant tusker attacks continue to plague rural areas of East Singhbhum
Daily Pioneer
May 18, 2023
The menace caused by wild tuskers in rural areas has reached an alarming
level, posing a constant threat to the lives and livelihoods of residents.
Despite efforts to mitigate the situation, incidents of human-elephant
conflicts have been on the rise, creating a growing concern among local
communities. On Monday alone, a tribal was killed by a wild elephant under
the Chakulia era.
Numerous incidents have been reported in recent months, with villages in
East and West Singhbhum and surrounding areas being severely affected. The
destructive behavior of these tuskers has resulted in substantial damage to
agricultural fields, causing significant economic losses to farmers who
heavily rely on their crops for sustenance.
The migrating herd of wild elephants in Chakulia block of East Singhbhum
district is targeting local villagers spreading fear. At several parts of
the twin districts of Singhbhum, paddy crops were destroyed by herds of
tuskers that have begun their annual migration through the villages.
Rampaging herds of tuskers in the villages are forcing innocent tribesmen
to spend sleepless nights.
In an area that boasts of a forest cover of 30 percent, the human-animal
conflict is a major concern of the people. In the past one week cases of
elephant’s regularly damaging standing crops have shot up.
Local residents have been living in fear as herds of wild elephants
frequently encroach upon their villages, destroying homes, crops, and
property in their path. The magnitude of the problem has escalated to the
point where daily activities, such as walking to school or fetching water,
have become perilous endeavors.
“Efforts to mitigate the tusker menace have been underway, but the
challenges persist. Local authorities have implemented measures such as
constructing electric fences, creating elephant corridors, and deploying
trained personnel to manage the human-elephant conflict. However, the sheer
size and agility of these majestic creatures have made it difficult to
completely resolve the issue,” said a villager.
In addition to the economic impact, the safety and well-being of the
residents remain a paramount concern. Instances of human casualties have
been reported due to encounters with the wild tuskers, underscoring the
urgent need for effective intervention.
The continued tusker menace in rural areas serves as a stark reminder of
the intricate relationship between humans and wildlife. It calls for
concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including government bodies,
conservation organizations, and local communities, to find long-term
solutions that prioritize both human safety and the preservation of
biodiversity.
“As the tusker menace persists, it is imperative that resources and
support are channeled toward addressing this pressing issue. Collaboration,
innovation, and community involvement will be key in ensuring a harmonious
coexistence between humans and these magnificent creatures,” said a forest
official.