Human–elephant conflict intensifies as tusker damages homes in Bonai

Panic has spread across several villages in the Bonai region of Sundargarh district as a rogue tusker continues to wreak havoc, damaging houses, crops, and property. The elephant has been roaming through areas including Bonai, Tamara, Banki Ranger, Baraghata, Bandhabhuin, and nearby villages, leaving residents in a state of constant fear.

According to local residents, the tusker remains inside the nearby forest during the daytime but strays into human settlements after dusk. The elephant has damaged house walls, destroyed standing crops, and even carried away sacks of rice and paddy from homes. Repeated intrusions have forced many families to abandon their houses and seek shelter in safer locations.

Villagers said they are spending sleepless nights attempting to drive the elephant away using torches, firecrackers, and loud noises. Despite these efforts, the tusker continues to return, heightening anxiety among children, elderly residents, and farmers who have already suffered significant losses.

Residents have urged the forest department to take immediate steps to capture or relocate the elephant to prevent further destruction. They have also demanded adequate compensation for the damage to crops and property.

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Forest officials said they are closely monitoring the movement of the elephant and have deployed teams in the affected areas to ensure public safety. However, villagers fear the situation could worsen if urgent and effective measures are not taken.

The recurring intrusion of wild elephants into human settlements has once again brought the issue of escalating human-elephant conflict in the region into sharp focus.