Bijnor: A 40-year-old man from Afzalgarh, who had been missing for nearly one-and-a-half months, was found dead near Shiv Temple in the New Colony area of Kalagarh on Sunday night. Forest officials suspect he may have been killed in an elephant attack. The victim was identified as Ismail, son of Akhtar, by his family at the Kotdwar post-mortem house.
Background of the Victim
Officials reported that Ismail was unmarried and suffered from mental illness. It is believed he may have wandered into the path of a herd of elephants moving between the forests of Corbett Tiger Reserve and nearby settlements. Forest staff noted that four elephants had been frequently entering residential areas around Kalagarh in recent days, apparently searching for mangoes, which has increased concern among local residents.
Official Statements
Kalagarh ranger Nand Kishore Ruwali stated that the exact cause of death would be known after examination and inquiry. “It is yet to be ascertained whether he was killed by an elephant. Following the incident, surveillance has been intensified and camera traps are being installed. Residents have been advised to avoid isolated areas and keep a safe distance from wildlife,” he said.
Precautionary Measures
Forest officials said teams are monitoring elephant movement near the settlement and warning residents not to move alone through isolated patches, especially during the evening and night hours. The area lies close to forested stretches used by elephants moving between Corbett Tiger Reserve and adjoining villages, where seasonal fruiting often brings them near human habitation.
