A herd of around 20 wild elephants has migrated from Rajnandgaon in Chhattisgarh to the adjoining Gadchiroli district three days ago. The local tribals wondered to see this jumbo animal as they had never seen it before in the area, Similarly, a sensation has also prevailed among them because of presence of so many elephants. They are also feeling insecured while going in jungle area.
The herd must have strayed from the corridor due to adverse climatic conditions in Chhattisgarh. It may be possible that the elephants have migrated here in search of proper food, water and good habitat. They are continuously moving in jungle areas to select a habitat conducive to them. Day before yesterday, the herd was seen moving in Murumgaon area but now it has moved to Dhanora. A possibility cannot be ruled out that these elephants stay in the district if they like suitable place to settle, may be for some period.
When contacted, Dr Kishor Mankar, Conservator of Forest, Gadchiroli, told The Live Nagpur on Thursday that Forest Department deployed necessary field staff members for monitoring and patrolling as well as enlightening the villagers on do’s and don’ts. Every movement of the herd is being observed, he said asking tribals to maintain restrain for their safety. He expected that the elephants can return to Chhattisgarh in the near future.
Meanwhile, two elephants had migrated from Rajnandgaon to Wadsa forest in the same district two years ago. They were moving in Vedgaon and Purada areas, One of the jumbos had even injured one person, when provocated. However, after a couple of days both the wild animals had gone back to their original place.
Meanwhile, one elephant has injured Ashok Madavi in attack in Dhanora Tehsil on Wednesday, it is reliably learnt.
