Elephant Herd Wreaks Havoc in Balangir, Four Injured

A herd of 16 elephants stormed into Saragul village under Ichhapada panchayat in Muribahal block during the early hours of Thursday, leaving destruction in their wake.

The animals demolished the house of Lingaraj Bhoi, trapping his family inside.

Four members, including two children, sustained injuries as the roof and beams collapsed.

Alerted villagers immediately informed the forest department, which rushed to the spot and rescued the victims.

The injured were shifted to Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital in Balangir for treatment.

The family’s home was completely destroyed, rendering them homeless.

Villagers have urged the government to bear medical expenses, provide permanent housing under welfare schemes, and ensure rehabilitation and compensation for families affected by recurring elephant attacks.

This incident underscores the growing human–wildlife conflict in Odisha, where rural communities continue to face threats from elephant herds straying into settlements.