Nagaland: Human–elephant conflict escalates in Old Aree village

Old Aree village under Wokha district is facing an escalating human–elephant conflict, with multiple attacks reported in December alone.
According to Old Aree Village Council chairman, Liponthung Lotha, at least five huts and several sugarcane and tapioca farms have already been destroyed this month, leaving villagers fearful for their safety. He informed that two elephant groups are currently stationed near the village—one near Longkhum area and another within the village—making it unsafe for residents to move even during the day. Villagers said the herds come so close at night that their presence is clearly audible, heightening fear and tension in the community.
Speaking to Nagaland Post, the chairman informed that villagers recently discovered placenta and other remains scattered across farmlands, suggesting that a new elephant calf was born nearby, potentially increasing the herd’s population and the threat to the village. He noted that although forest officials visited the affected areas, further destruction of sugarcane farms occurred after their inspection.
Expressing concern, Lotha said the conflict was rising rapidly yet no effective or lasting measures had been implemented. He pointed out that villagers were now afraid to step out of their homes, despite depending on surrounding forests and fields for their livelihood.
The chairman informed that he has approached the Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, and the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), urging immediate assistance, stronger interventions and long-term solutions to safeguard the village from further damage.