Human-elephant conflict escalates in South Garo Hills; villagers struggle amid daily incursions

A growing crisis is unfolding in Gasuapara, South Garo Hills, where local residents are grappling with daily incursions by wild elephants. According to villagers, herds of 30 to 40 elephants have been entering the area every evening, causing widespread panic and destruction.

In an attempt to protect their homes and farmland, villagers have resorted to bursting firecrackers to drive the animals away, a method they say has become part of their daily routine. Despite repeated complaints lodged with the district wildlife authorities, residents allege that no concrete action has been taken so far.

“We are living in fear. They destroy our crops, orchards, and fields. We cannot farm or even sleep in peace,” said one of the affected farmers. The situation, they claim, has made agricultural activity nearly impossible.

On Sunday evening, the herd once again appeared near the Tura–Baghmara Road, prompting locals to rush out with firecrackers to push the animals back into the forest.

Villagers are now urging the forest and wildlife departments to intervene urgently and implement long-term mitigation measures to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of both people and wildlife.