Dhenkanal: In an untoward development in Dhenkanal district, 39 jumbos are now unable to return to their wild habitat. In the absence of elephant corridors, River Brahmani in spate and Rengali south canal flooded with rainwater the pachyderms have been hindered on their way back to forests.
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Notably, these jumbos of Parjang forest range had ingressed nearby human settlements at Rasasingh area of Jharagadia outpost under Sadar police limits a few days back after crossing River Brahmani.
According to reports, the pachyderms have divided into two groups and are wandering here and there. Local villagers remain in panic as the herd of elephants had rampaged farmlands at Rasasingh village after crossing national highway (NH-55) two days ago. This had wreaked havoc among residents of nearby riverside villages.
The elephants were seen returning back to Matharagadi reserve forest yesterday. In two separate herds, the pachyderms again went to Rasasingh area to feed on palm fruits.
Even as 21 elephants were seen wandering near River Brahmani, 18 others have been trying to move out from Matharagadi reserve forest.
On being contacted, Gadashila section forester Rabinarayan Nayak said, “One herd is wandering in the nearby area of River Brahmani and the other herd is looking for a way out to forest, after the group split. However, we are watchful on their movements.”
PNN