Odisha: Wild elephant threat returns to Sonepur, farmers fear crop damage

Sonepur: The forest department is struggling to control a herd of wild elephants in the Ulunda range of Sonepur district in Odisha. Recently the forest department captured 21 elephants and successfully drove them away, providing relief to the farmers.

However, two days later the elephants have returned to the Ulunda area causing havoc. As it is harvest season, the farmers are worried about their crops. The villagers are frightened by the presence of the elephants. They have started lighting fires in an attempt to drive away the elephant herd.

The forest officials in Binika are monitoring the movement of the herd closely. The forest officer informed “the five elephants from the herd have now moved to the Binika range, staying near the Urle village area.” They are trying to safely guide the elephants back to the forest without causing any harm. They are also working to ensure that there is no damage to life or crops.