Boko, May 2: Residents of Sukuniya-Pukhuripara in Assam’s Boko area are grappling with mounting distress as a herd of nearly 30 Asian elephant continues to enter the locality at night in search of food, causing widespread damage and fear among villagers.
The repeated incursions have forced residents to remain on constant alert, with many spending sleepless nights amid concerns over safety and further destruction. Persistent rainfall has compounded the situation, making it more difficult for villagers to safeguard their homes and farmlands.
According to locals, the herd has ravaged large areas of banana plantations, betel nut trees and standing crops, dealing a severe blow to agrarian livelihoods. Farmers reported significant economic losses as the elephants have been moving through agricultural fields almost every night, leaving a trail of destruction.
Residents alleged that despite repeated appeals to the Forest Department, there has been no effective intervention to drive the herd away. They claimed that the lack of timely action has allowed the animals to continue entering human settlements without restraint.
Villagers have urged authorities to take immediate and coordinated measures to manage the situation, protect crops and property, and ensure the safety of both residents and the wild elephants.
