Nawada / Patna : A herd of around 30 elephants has caused widespread destruction in Nawada district of Bihar, leaving villagers fearful and homeless. The elephants, which included two to three calves, entered the Ratanpur village of Chitrakoli Panchayat in Rajauli block, roaming through the forests of Jamundaha and Bakarkhuri in Hardiya Panchayat, damaging homes and crops in their wake.
Widespread Destruction
The herd wreaked havoc in Nawadih village, where the homes of residents, including Fagun Singh and Kishun Singh, were reduced to rubble. In Bakarkhuri, the houses of three families, including those of Jurah Munda, Kunwar Munda, Karam Singh Munda, and Goga Tuti, were destroyed. Crops of wheat, pigeon pea, and mustard, vital for local farmers, were also trampled and ruined by the marauding elephants.
Villagers Struggle to Drive Elephants Away
As the elephants moved through Hardiya, Jamundaha, and Bakarkhuri, panic spread among villagers. Despite their best efforts to drive the herd away, the elephants took refuge in the nearby forest and lingered near Railway Camp No. 38 for nearly two hours before moving towards Bakarkhuri. Concerned for their safety, many villagers resorted to desperate measures, setting fire to the forests in an attempt to force the elephants to retreat. However, the fire quickly spread and became uncontrollable, blanketing the area in thick smoke and making breathing difficult for residents.
Homeless and Hungry
With their homes destroyed, many villagers, especially women and children, sought refuge under trees in Bakarkhuri and Jamundaha. Food supplies have dwindled, and despite some assistance from fellow villagers, it has become increasingly difficult for the displaced families to secure enough food. No relief measures have been provided by local authorities, adding to the distress of those left homeless.
Authorities Assure Action
Shrestha Kumar Krishna, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Nawada, acknowledged the situation and said that forest workers are working tirelessly to drive the herd away from inhabited areas. He confirmed that a special team from Bankura was expected to arrive to assist, but as of Thursday evening, the team had not yet reached Rajauli.
“The damage to homes and farmland on Raiti land will be assessed, and appropriate compensation will be provided by the department. We are making every effort to ensure that the elephants are safely guided back to the forest,” Krishna said, assuring that the situation would be brought under control soon.
