Herd of elephants wreaks havoc in northern India, leaving villagers in panic
by Aditi VermaA herd of wild elephants strayed into a village in northern India’s Uttarakhand, causing panic among locals and damaging crops. The recurring issue has raised concerns about safety and the effectiveness of forest department measures.
The incident took place at Gadowali village, located in Haridwar district on November 16.
Visuals showed a herd of majestic elephants wandering through a residential area, their massive forms moving gracefully yet causing alarm. Towering over the homes, they meandered across narrow streets and fields, leaving villagers anxious.
The herd trampled crops and caused substantial damage, leaving the locals in fear. Residents reported the incident to the forest department, which eventually managed to drive the elephants back into the forest after considerable effort.
The frequent movement of elephants into residential areas has escalated tensions in villages near Rajaji National Park. Villagers allege inadequate preventive measures by the forest department, citing repeated wildlife incursions as evidence of poor management.
“Elephants are no longer just a nocturnal concern; they now enter during the day, destroying crops and creating panic,” said a local farmer.
Shailendra Singh Negi, Range Officer of Haridwar, assured residents that the department has deployed quick response teams in vulnerable areas. “Our teams patrol day and night to manage such incidents. Meetings have also been conducted with villagers to explore changes in agricultural practices to deter wildlife,” he added.
Despite these efforts, locals demand more robust solutions, including better barriers and consistent monitoring, to protect their lives and livelihoods from recurring elephant intrusions.