Correspondent
WOKHA, JUL 2 (NPN): Human-elephant conflict continues to threaten farmers in Wokha district, with a herd of wild elephants raiding farmlands at Chanka village on two separate occasions within five days.
According to villagers, the first incident occurred on the night of June 27, when seven farmers suffered significant losses. The elephants damaged paddy fields, vegetables, fruits, plantations and destroyed field huts.
The herd returned on July 1 and damaged two more agricultural fields. The full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed as villagers believe the elephants are still in the vicinity, making it risky to enter the affected areas. Villagers said they informed the forest department about both incidents. However, officials have been unable to reach the site due to poor road conditions.
Access to the affected farmlands requires crossing the Jurang River, whose water level has risen following recent rainfall. The absence of a bridge has made it impossible for vehicles to cross, delaying damage assessment and response efforts.
Human-elephant conflict has remained a recurring problem in Wokha district, resulting in repeated crop losses and affecting the livelihoods of farming communities.
To strengthen wildlife management and address such conflicts, the Doyang Wildlife Division has recently been established in the district.
Villagers have appealed to the responsible authorities to take immediate measures to prevent further crop damage and ensure the safety of residents living in elephant-prone areas.