Elephant attack claims two lives in Odisha’s Baripada forest division

A man was killed in an elephant attack in Bhadusole village under Rasgovindpur Range of Baripada Forest Division on Tuesday night. 

Another fatal attack was also reported the same day from a nearby range, heightening concern in the area.

The deceased in the Bhadusole incident has been identified as Laxman Marandi. He was reportedly attacked by an elephant while he had gone to his field. Villagers later found his body lying in the field. On receiving information, Forest department personnel reached the spot and initiated necessary procedures.

Rising Elephant Movement

For the past few days, a herd of five to six elephants has been moving from village to village in the Rasgovindpur Range, damaging crops and triggering fear among residents. The continued movement of the herd has led to growing anxiety in affected villages.

Notably, on Tuesday as well, one person died in an elephant attack in Kuliana block under Deuli Range of Baripada Forest Division. The deceased had reportedly gone into the field to relieve himself when an elephant attacked him. The elephant allegedly smashed his head, resulting in his death, though the rest of the body remained intact.

Tension In Village

Tension prevailed in the village on Wednesday following the incident, as locals expressed concern over frequent elephant incursions and crop damage. Police and Forest Department officials reached the village and attempted to pacify residents.

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Villagers reportedly planned to block roads in protest. However, after the intervention of local intellectuals, the situation was brought under control. Residents demanded that the elephants be driven away to prevent further loss of life. Authorities assured that the deceased’s family would receive compensation, following which the situation subsided.

The body was later sent to PRMMCH in Baripada for post-mortem examination.