Human-Elephant Conflict Claims Another Life in Assam Border Village

GUWAHATI: In a tragic incident, a 78-year-old woman was killed by a wild elephant by being trampled to death in Katha Chema village near Jagun, which is situated close to Arunachal Pradesh.

The victim, who was Shobha Tamang, was a Jairampur resident in Arunachal Pradesh. She had been visiting family members in Katha Chema village when the disaster struck.

The elephant, witnesses said, came out of nowhere from the adjacent forest and killed the old woman. The surprise nature of the attack left villagers shocked and in deep mourning.

The incident has again thrown into sharp relief the increasing conflict between expanding human settlements and diminishing wildlife habitats. Locals in the region have expressed increasing worries about the occurrence of such encounters, pointing out that wild elephants tend to enter villages in pursuit of food during some seasons. Such incursions not only risk human lives but also lead to crop damage and property loss.

Following the most recent tragedy, local police officials and forest department officials quickly arrived at the site to survey the situation and provide required aid. Though early relief and aid were given, villagers have made new demands for more preventive action.

Villagers are demanding the installation of early warning systems, enhanced patrolling in the affected areas, and the building of protective barriers to protect communities residing in high-risk areas.

ALSO READ:

ALSO WATCH: