Human-wildlife conflict intensified in Chhattisgarh over the weekend, with a herd of elephants damaging houses and foodgrain stocks in Korba district, while two tendu leaf collectors were injured in a bear attack in Gariyaband.
Elephant Herd Causes Panic in Korba
In Korba, a herd of four elephants entered residential areas in Patel Para and Dhobghat in Katghora forest division late Friday night. The elephants damaged three mud houses and tore open several sacks of paddy stored inside, triggering panic among villagers. Families sleeping inside the houses managed to flee in time. The herd remained close to the village till Saturday morning, forcing residents to use torches and loud noise to drive the elephants away.
Forest officials rushed to the spot after being alerted and are still tracking the herd's movement. Announcements have been made in nearby villages, asking people not to step out at night or go near the elephants. Officials said damage assessment is underway and compensation will be processed as per rules.
Bear Attack in Gariyaband
In a separate incident in Gariyaband district, two villagers were severely injured after a wild bear attacked them while they were collecting tendu leaves in the forests near Kasarbai-Hardi village. The incident took place around 2pm on Sunday when Ranu Sahu and Suresh Sahu had entered the forest along with other villagers for leaf collection.
The bear suddenly emerged from the bushes and attacked Ranu, injuring his neck and hand. Suresh, who tried to rescue him, was also mauled. Other collectors raised an alarm and helped bring the injured men out of the forest. Both were taken to the community health centre, where doctors said they were out of danger.
Villagers Demand Better Safety Measures
Villagers said forest produce such as tendu leaves, mahua, char, kusum and chironji remains the main source of income for many families, forcing them to enter forests despite the risk of wild animal attacks. They alleged that while collection work continues every year, safety arrangements for gatherers could be made better.
Wildlife officials have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any animal sightings immediately. Compensation for the damage caused by elephants will be processed as per government norms, officials added.
