Bandhavgarh Elephant Attack: Three wild elephants went on a rampage through the villages of Devra, Karahia, and Banka, adjacent to the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, claiming two lives and seriously injuring two others. This incident comes on the heels of ten elephants dying in the forest, raising concerns about wildlife behaviour and forest management.
The attack started with 62-year-old Ramratan Yadav, a resident of Devra village, who was fatally trampled when he had gone out to relieve himself. According to local villages, the elephants dragged Yadav away, leaving him with fatal injuries. The elephants then proceeded to Patharhata village, where they attacked and killed 35-year-old Bhairav Kol near Bagdari Talaiya. Two farmers, Sandeep Sahu and Bhagwandeen, were also severely injured while harvesting paddy in a nearby field. Both are currently receiving treatment at the district hospital, with their conditions described as critical.
The elephants also damaged two vehicles near Chandia College and destroyed a ‘machan’, a raised platform to watch animals, in a nearby field. Forest officials, led by Additional Chief Secretary, Forests, Ashok Barnwal and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Asim Srivastava, visited the areas to assess the situation. The forest department has since issued an appeal for villagers to take precautionary measures and remain indoors when possible.
Madhya Pradesh Forest Minister Dilip Ahirwar has announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of the deceased. He has expressed condolences for the loss of life and promised support to those affected.
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Elephant Health Crisis In Bandhavgarh
This latest tragedy compounds concerns in Bandhavgarh, where the sudden deaths of ten elephants have already sparked a major investigation. Four days ago, the health of 13 elephants in the region deteriorated rapidly, resulting in the deaths of ten of them. The remaining three elephants are reportedly still in a critical condition and receiving treatment from wildlife health specialists.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has ordered an inquiry into the circumstances leading to the elephants’ deaths. Field Director Gaurav Chaudhary and Assistant Conservator of Forests Fateh Singh have been suspended for alleged negligence, with the CM calling for swift action to prevent further tragedies.
