Bhanjanagar: Panic has gripped locals with as many as 52 elephants reportedly present in the North Ghumsur forest division of Ganjam district Monday.
When night falls, the elephant herds leave the forest and cause extensive damage in nearby villages, residents said. Reports said elephants blocked the Nidhia Palli–Galeri road for a long time Sunday night, leaving commuters frightened.
A tusker was seen crossing National Highway 157 near Buduli, visibly disturbed as onlookers jostled to take selfies Monday evening.
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Environmentalists, including Ramesh Patra, a member of the North Ghumsur forest wildlife committee, urged the Forest department to take necessary steps to ensure safe passage for the elephants.
Forest personnel rushed to the spot and tried to drive the tusker back into the forest. At one point, the elephant charged at officials and locals, forcing them to run for safety.
The tusker’s presence has disrupted traffic on the Bhanjanagar–Phulbani highway.
PNN
