Wild Elephants Cause Distress in Boko as They Venture into Human Settlements

In Boko, a large herd of wild elephants has emerged from the forest, causing extensive damage to crops and instilling fear among local residents. The elephants, numbering over 40, have disrupted traffic and damaged agricultural fields during the crucial harvesting season. This incident highlights the ongoing human-elephant conflict in the area, prompting calls for effective measures to protect both the community and wildlife. As the forest department works to guide the elephants back to their habitat, the situation remains a pressing concern for the local population.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 3, 2026, 11:22 IST

Elephant Herd Creates Havoc in Boko

The herd reportedly ventured out of the forest in search of food, creating havoc across a vast area (Image)

Boko, Nov 3: Residents in the Rajapara region of Boko are once again facing anxiety due to the presence of a large herd of wild elephants.

This herd, consisting of over 40 elephants, has emerged from the forest in search of food, wreaking havoc across a wide area that includes Rajapara, Muhipara, Chenchapani, Kukurmara, and Dekapara.

The elephants have caused significant damage to paddy fields and banana crops, leaving local farmers in distress.

This situation is particularly alarming as it coincides with the harvesting season, a critical time for farmers who rely on their crops for income. The destruction of standing crops has led to substantial financial losses for those dependent on agriculture.

The movement of the elephants within the jurisdiction of the Bandapara Range Forest Officer’s office has instigated widespread fear among the local populace. The ongoing encroachment of wild elephants into human habitats has become a pressing issue for residents.

Additionally, the herd's movement disrupted traffic on National Highway 17 for several hours on Sunday afternoon. As the elephants crossed the highway, long lines of vehicles formed on either side, causing significant inconvenience for commuters.

Local inhabitants note that the presence of wild elephants in this area is not unusual. Elephant herds often leave nearby forests in search of food, leading to damage to agricultural lands, home gardens, and residential properties. These recurring events have exacerbated the long-standing human-elephant conflict in the Boko region.

Range Forest Officer Kulumonali Gogoi commented on the situation, stating that forest department staff are actively working to guide the elephant herd back into their natural habitat.

It is important to note that the human-elephant conflict has been a persistent issue in the Boko area for many years. Previous incidents have resulted in human fatalities due to wild elephant attacks, as well as unnatural deaths of elephants in various parts of the region.

This latest occurrence underscores the urgent need for effective strategies to reduce human-elephant conflict and safeguard both the local community and wildlife.