A wild tusker attacked two people in Jalmeripalli village under Fasiguda Gram Panchayat in Digapahandi Block of Ganjam district, killing them instantly.
The victims, Gopinath Pradhan and Urmila Rout, had gone to their fields on Sunday morning when the elephant charged at them. Both sustained fatal injuries and died on the spot.
The Bhismagiri Forest Team rushed to the location after receiving information and launched efforts to drive the elephant back into the forest. Villagers gathered at the site, expressing grief and fear over recurring elephant intrusions. Tension gripped the area as locals worried about their safety and the future of their crops.
Sources revealed that shrinking forests continue to push elephants closer to human settlements. The conflict often results in crop damage, property loss, and tragic deaths. Wildlife experts emphasise the urgent need for sustainable solutions to reduce human-elephant encounters.
The incident highlights the growing challenge of balancing conservation with community safety. Villagers demand stronger preventive measures, including early warning systems and better forest management, to protect lives and livelihoods.
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