Sundargarh Human‑Elephant Conflict: Three Dead in Three Days, Villagers Blame Forest Officials
Sundargarh, Odisha: The human‑elephant conflict in Sundargarh district has taken a deadly turn, claiming three lives in just three days.
On Friday night, a 60‑year‑old man was killed in Prem Nagar under Bondamunda area near Rourkela when a tusker strayed into the settlement.
Earlier, a 55‑year‑old woman, Jamuna Mahant, was trampled to death in Kachupada village under Banki Range.
In another incident, a 65‑year‑old woman lost her life instantly after being attacked in Jayadega forest under Biramitrapur Range.
The spate of attacks has triggered panic among villagers, who accuse the Forest Department of failing to control elephant movement.
Locals allege that officials only provide compensation after fatalities but take no preventive measures to safeguard lives.
The recurring tragedies highlight the growing tension between wildlife and human settlements in Sundargarh, raising urgent questions about effective management strategies and community safety.
