Elephants destroy paddy crops in Korba

Korba | Correspondent: The Conflict between wildlife and humans in Chhattisgarh's Korba district is getting serious. 

In a recent incident, two tuskers from the Dharmajaigarh forest division wreaked havoc in Gitkuwari village, located within the Kudmura Range. Undermining the farmers' hard work, the elephants completely trampled several acres of paddy crops that were standing ready for harvest. 

Villagers attempted to drive the elephants away using torches and by making loud noises; however, by that time, a significant portion of the crops had already been destroyed.

Currently, a total of 53 elephants are active across various parts of the district, divided into four distinct herds. The largest of these groups consists of 48 elephants, which have been congregating at Meud Hill, located in the Jatga Range of the Katghora Forest Division, since last March.

According to experts, due to the abundance of water and fodder available in this hilly terrain, which spans approximately 5,000 hectares, this herd of elephants spends two to three months here every year during the summer season.

The presence of these elephants has instilled deep fear among residents, particularly those in the Kudmura, Jatga, and Pasan regions. As a precautionary measure, the Forest Department has issued public announcements (Munadi) in the affected areas, advising residents to remain vigilant.

Departmental teams and 'Elephant Mitra' (Elephant Friend) squads are continuously monitoring the movements of the elephants. Drone cameras are also being utilized to keep a watch on the large herd stationed at Meud Hill, to prevent them from straying toward human settlements. The administration has assured the affected farmers that a damage assessment survey will be conducted, and appropriate compensation will be provided to them shortly. (Symbolic Photo)