Wild Elephant Terrorizes Rohtas Villages Along Sone River
Panic has gripped multiple villages situated along the Sone river in the Rohtas district of Bihar following a destructive rampage by a wild elephant. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday night in the Son Dila area near Kushdihra locality under Nagar panchayat, resulted in the deaths of at least six domestic animals and significant damage to property and agricultural fields.
Extensive Damage to Livestock and Infrastructure
The elephant's attack was both brutal and widespread. It targeted and killed several buffaloes and cows, completely destroying thatched huts in its path. Furthermore, the animal caused extensive damage to standing wheat crops and other agricultural produce, dealing a severe blow to local farmers. The destruction extended to vital water infrastructure, with several hand pumps, motor pumps, and borewell structures being damaged during the rampage.
Specific losses reported by villagers include:
- A calf belonging to Shivpujan Chaudhary
- Two buffaloes and a buffalo calf owned by Anil Yadav
- One cow belonging to Sunil Chaudhary
- One cow owned by Anil Chaudhary
Elephant's Movement and Ongoing Threat
Forest department officials have revealed that the elephant reached the Son Dila area approximately three days ago. It traveled through the hilly terrain of Nabinagar in the neighboring Aurangabad district, moving along the Sone river belt between the Rohtas and Nauhatta blocks. Since its arrival, the animal has frequently strayed into agricultural fields and residential areas, keeping residents of riverside villages in a constant state of fear and anxiety.
Despite concerted efforts by villagers, assisted by forest department personnel, to drive the elephant away, it remains in the vicinity. Local residents express grave concerns that unless the animal is guided back into the forest promptly, it may cause further large-scale destruction to life and property.
Forest Department's Response and Safety Measures
Assistant Conservator of Forests for the Sasaram forest division, along with Forest Range Officer Chauhan Shashibhushan Kumar, confirmed that a forest team rushed to Son Dila immediately upon receiving information about the incident. The team is actively making efforts to contain the animal and prevent further damage.
"We appeal to all villagers to remain extremely alert and avoid approaching the elephant under any circumstances," stated Kumar, emphasizing the importance of public safety during this critical situation.
In a significant development, officials have reported that a trained team from Chenari has already reached the spot to assist in the operation. Furthermore, a specialist elephant-capturing team from Bengal is en route and is expected to arrive on Friday to help manage the situation effectively.
The ongoing presence of the wild elephant continues to pose a serious threat to the communities along the Sone river, with authorities working diligently to resolve the crisis and restore safety to the affected villages.
