The Jharkhand Forest Department today announced intensified efforts to capture a rogue wild elephant responsible for the deaths of at least 20 people in the West Singhbhum district over the past nine days.
The attacks, which began on January 1, have sparked widespread fear among local communities as rescue teams work around the clock to locate and tranquilize the animal.
The elephant, identified as a young male possibly in a state of musth, has rampaged through the Chaibasa and Kolhan forest ranges, claiming lives in multiple villages.
Victims include farmers guarding their fields and families asleep in their homes. In one tragic incident, the elephant killed an entire family of four. Officials report that the animal strikes primarily at night, making it difficult for residents to protect themselves.
"These incidents highlight the growing human wildlife conflict in our region," said Jharkhand's Chief Wildlife Warden, Amit Kumar. "We are deploying over 70 forest guards and experts from neighboring states to drive the elephant back into the forest or capture it safely." The department has canceled train services in affected areas and is using drums and firecrackers to alert villagers and deter the elephant.
Recent updates indicate that the elephant has crossed into neighboring Odisha, prompting coordinated efforts between the two states to prevent its return. Forest officials are monitoring the border with heightened vigilance, employing drones and tracking teams to ensure public safety.
The surge in attacks stems from habitat loss, which forces elephants into human settlements in search of food. Over the last 23 years, Jharkhand has recorded more than 1,300 deaths due to elephant encounters, underscoring the need for long-term conservation strategies.
The government has announced compensation for the victims' families and urged residents to remain indoors after dusk. "Our priority is to resolve this without harming the elephant, but public safety comes first," added Kumar. As operations continue, authorities appeal for community cooperation and patience during this challenging time.