Jumbo herd wreaks havoc in Keonjhar

Keonjhar: A herd of elephants has caused extensive damage to a mango orchard in Telkoi forest area of Keonjhar in last four days.

The elephants destroyed trees in Telkoi block's Saruali and Sinkula bahal areas while mango plantations have also been destroyed.

The farmers are now demanding compensation as the herd of jumbos has wreaked havoc leading to destruction of mango harvest in nearly 5,000 acres of land.

The villagers are also demanding a permanent solution to the problem.

"The elephants have destroyed around 200 mango trees in last four days. Despite trying very hard we have failed to drive back the elephants. The forest officials should compensate us for the loss," farmer Maghu Barik said.

The Forest Department has assured compensation for farmers after conducting an assessment of damage.

Forest Department official of Telkoi, Pitambar Barik, said," Only after a complete assessment of the damage, a final report will be sent to higher officials and compensation will be provided to the affected farmers."