Human-elephant conflict flares in Keonjhar as animal damages house, crops

The movement of multiple elephant herds has triggered panic in parts of the Champua range in Odisha’s Keonjhar district, with repeated incidents of damage to houses and crops reported over the past few days. The situation escalated on Saturday when an elephant entered Padmapur village under the Champua range and caused extensive damage, officials and locals said.

According to reports, the elephant broke doors of residential houses and destroyed both standing and stored crops in the village. The animal was also seen moving along the main road, triggering fear among residents. The incident is part of a series of elephant incursions reported from the Champua area in recent days.

Safety Concerns Raised

Videos circulating from the area showed villagers attempting to drive away the elephants