Tusker sparks fear in G. Udayagiri, another elephant herd sighted in Athagarh

Panic gripped residents of G. Udayagiri town in Kandhamal district late Friday night after a tusker strayed into the area. The lone elephant wandered through the lanes for several hours, leaving locals terrified as it moved dangerously close to their houses. Eventually, the tusker headed towards the nearby Gamuli forest on its own. Forest department officials later reached the spot and ensured the animal was driven away.

Recurring Menace In The Region

The tusker has been creating panic in the locality for the past three months. During this period, two people have lost their lives in elephant attacks, while several cattle have been trampled to death. Despite repeated protests by residents demanding action, a permanent solution has not been found. With the tusker now entering the town itself, the concerns of locals have grown more serious, with many fearing fresh incidents.

Herd Returns To Athagarh

In another incident, a herd of elephants has returned to Athagarh in Cuttack district. The sighting of 22 elephants crossing a road was captured on camera, leaving commuters alarmed. After a long gap, the herd has moved out of the Chandaka forest and returned to the Athagarh forest range.

Farmers And Travellers On Edge

The return of the herd has sparked fresh anxiety among farmers, who fear damage to crops. Travellers, too, were left panicked after spotting the herd blocking roads in the area. The elephants are currently moving between Kandarpur and Rajnagar roads leading towards Athagarh's Mundali. Forest department personnel have been deployed near Rajnagar village forest in Athagarh to keep track of the herd’s movement and to prevent untoward incidents.