Udalguri, Assam - In a devastating incident that took place today, Raju Keunt, a 47-year-old resident, lost his life after being trampled by a wild elephant at the Orangajuli tea garden. The unfortunate incident occurred under the jurisdiction of the Paneri police station in Udalguri district. Keunt was attempting to feed bananas to a group of wild elephants when the tragedy unfolded.
Eyewitnesses reported that Keunt had ventured close to the elephants, hoping to interact with them and feed them some bananas. Unfortunately, one of the elephants became agitated and charged at him, resulting in the fatal trampling. Despite the efforts of the tea garden workers and nearby residents to rescue him, Keunt succumbed to his injuries on the spot.
This incident sheds light on a growing problem in Udalguri district, as it marks the sixth human fatality this year resulting from encounters with wild elephants. Additionally, it is reported that five wild elephants have lost their lives during the same period, highlighting the need for urgent measures to address the issue.
Local authorities have expressed concern over the escalating human-elephant conflict in the area and have vowed to take appropriate action. The Forest Department has been alerted, and wildlife officials are expected to conduct an investigation into the incident. They will evaluate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and explore measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
The district administration, along with forest officials, has initiated discussions with experts and local communities to devise strategies aimed at mitigating human-elephant conflicts. Efforts will focus on creating awareness among residents about the risks associated with approaching wild elephants and the importance of maintaining a safe distance from these majestic animals.
Meanwhile, residents of Udalguri district are urged to exercise caution while encountering wild elephants and to report any sightings or unusual behavior to the appropriate authorities. It is crucial to prioritize the safety of both humans and wildlife to ensure a peaceful coexistence.
The tragic death of Raju Keunt serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by communities living in close proximity to wildlife. It highlights the need for proactive measures, including improved habitat management, awareness campaigns, and enhanced cooperation between local communities and authorities, to mitigate the growing human-elephant conflict in Assam's Udalguri district.
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