Two Killed in Wild Elephant Attack in Ganjam’s Digapahandi Block

Bhubaneswar: In a tragic incident, two persons were killed in a wild elephant attack at Jalmeripalli village under Fasiguda Gram Panchayat in Digapahandi block of Ganjam district on Sunday morning.

The deceased have been identified as Gopinath Pradhan and Urmila Rout. According to reports, the duo had gone to their agricultural fields early in the morning when a rogue tusker suddenly charged at them. Both sustained grievous injuries in the attack and died on the spot.

On being informed, the Bhismagiri Forest Team rushed to the village and initiated measures to drive the elephant back into the nearby forest area. Forest officials also began an assessment of the situation to prevent further untoward incidents.

The incident triggered panic in the village, with residents gathering at the site and expressing deep concern over frequent wildlife intrusions into human settlements. Villagers alleged that recurring elephant movement in the area has posed a constant threat to life and crops.

Sources indicated that shrinking forest cover and habitat disturbances are increasingly pushing elephants towards human habitations, resulting in crop damage and occasional loss of life.

Further steps are being taken by forest authorities to monitor elephant movement in the region and ensure the safety of villagers.