Bargarh: The farmers in Padmapur are a distressed lot as wild elephants have been frequently straying into the farmlands and destroying crops. However, it is being alleged that the administration has turned a blind eye to the jumbo menace.
The farmers alleged that the pachyderms have damaged crops in several acres of land in Dubulabahal, Dhauramunda, Pandaripani and Ichapali villages, but the Forest officials are sitting idle without taking any steps.
"Elephants are causing massive losses and even damaging electric poles. After we reported the matter to the concerned officials of the Electricity department they didn't even bother listening to us" alleged a farmer, Akrur Sahu.
"A herd of 60 elephants have completely destroyed vegetables and paddy crops. I am yet to receive any compensation," alleged another farmer Ganesh Sahu.
According to sources, the pachyderms have been wreaking havoc for the past 5 years after straying from the nearby jungle.
Responding to the allegations, Padampur sub-collector said that necessary steps will be taken to address the issue on a priority basis.
"I have held meetings with the Forest department and asked them to immediately estimate and disburse compensation to the affected farmers,” said Padampur sub-collector, Daulat Chandrakar.