Ramgarh Cantonment Takes Action Against Elephant Herd Rampage
The Ramgarh Cantonment Board has implemented a critical measure to address a growing wildlife conflict, installing high-intensity lights in the Jaratola locality. This initiative aims to deter a large herd of elephants that has been causing significant disruption and damage in Ward Number 6.
Elephant Herd Causes Widespread Disruption
According to Nitish Kumar, the Ramgarh divisional forest officer (DFO), a substantial herd of 18 elephants has established a camp in the hills near Kankebar village. From this location, the elephants have been frequently venturing into the nearby villages surrounding Ramgarh town, posing a serious threat to both property and public safety.
The situation escalated when a group of seven elephants from this herd moved towards the Jaratola area, which falls under Ward No. 6. Over the course of the last two nights, these elephants have rampaged through agricultural fields, destroying crops and creating an atmosphere of fear among local residents.
Administrative Response and Public Advisory
In response to the escalating crisis, the district administration and the forest department have issued a joint appeal to all residents. They are strongly advising people to remain indoors during the night hours to avoid any potential encounters with the elephant herd. This precautionary measure is intended to minimize the risk of human-elephant conflicts and ensure community safety.
Cantonment Board's Proactive Measures
Anmol Singh, the former vice chairman of the Ramgarh Cantonment Board, detailed the civic body's response to the emergency. The installation of high lights in the Jaratola locality represents a key step in their strategy to repel the elephants. These lights are designed to create an environment that is less attractive to the herd, potentially discouraging their nocturnal movements into residential and agricultural areas.
Furthermore, the cantonment board has formally requested assistance from the forest department. They have specifically asked for the provision of firecrackers and kerosene oil, which would enable residents to create fire torches. This traditional method is often used in conjunction with modern deterrents like high lights to effectively keep wild elephants at bay and protect both human settlements and livelihoods.
The combined efforts of the cantonment board, forest department, and district administration highlight a coordinated approach to managing this pressing wildlife issue in Ramgarh.
