Assam: Wild elephant herd wreaks havoc in Boko villages, banana and betel nut plantations destroyed

Residents of Sukuniya-Pukhuripara in Assam’s Boko area are facing severe hardship as a herd of nearly 30 wild elephants continues to enter the locality at night in search of food, triggering panic among villagers and causing extensive damage to crops and plantations.

The repeated intrusion by the elephants has left villagers spending sleepless nights amid fears of further attacks and destruction. The situation has been aggravated by relentless rainfall, adding to the difficulties faced by the local population.

According to residents, the marauding herd has destroyed large stretches of banana plantations, betel nut trees and standing crops, severely affecting the livelihoods of farming families in the area. Farmers said the continued raids have resulted in substantial economic losses, with plantations and farmlands being damaged almost every night.

Locals alleged that despite repeated appeals to the Forest Department, no effective measures have been taken to drive the herd away from the villages. Residents claimed that the lack of timely intervention has allowed the elephants to continue their movement through agricultural fields unchecked.

The villagers have urged the authorities to take immediate steps to control the situation and prevent further damage to crops and property, while ensuring the safety of both residents and the wild elephants.