In a tragic incident highlighting the escalating elephant-human conflict in Goalpara district, a wild elephant fatally attacked and killed Subhash Chandra Rabha, 45, in Panditpara village of Rangjuli. The incident occurred late at night when Subhash encountered the elephant unexpectedly while seeking relief from the heat outdoors. The elephant dragged him to a nearby house’s verandah where the attack took place.
The villagers, caught off guard by the sudden aggression, managed to chase the elephant away following the attack. Prompt response from Rangjuli police and forest department officials led to the recovery of Subhash’s body, which was subsequently transported to the Rangjuli police station.
This tragic event has underscored the mounting tensions and dangers faced by communities living in proximity to wildlife habitats in Goalpara district. The issue has been exacerbated by recent floods, further disrupting daily life and exacerbating human-wildlife encounters.
In response to the incident, villagers have voiced increasing frustration and fear, urging the Forest Department to implement effective measures to mitigate the conflict. They emphasize the need for sustainable solutions to safeguard both human lives and the natural habitat of elephants in the region.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to manage and minimize elephant-human conflicts in Goalpara, ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents affected by these encounters.