Six killed in wild elephant attacks in five months in Jhapa

JHAPA: Six people have lost their lives in elephant attacks in the past five months in Jhapa.

The victims were either collecting fodder, on morning walks, or were asleep at home when the incidents occurred.

Meghraj Rai, the Chief of the Division Forest Office in Jhapa, said that two more persons died in elephant attacks only this week. The deceased have been identified as Khadgamaya Mabo (58) of Kamal Rural Municipality-5, and Pabitra Bhetuwal (60) of Shibasatakshi-11.

These recent incidents have left the local community in a state of fear and unease.

Ruma Subba, a resident of Kamal Rural Municipality-5, said they constantly live in fear of potential wild animal attacks in the aftermath of the incident in the locality.

All 15 localities within the district are deemed vulnerable to elephant encounters. The fatalities in the past five months include one in Damak Municipality, two in Shibasatakshi, two in Haldibari, and one in Kamal Rural Municipality.

The tuskers have unleashed terror in the neighboring districts of Morang and Sunsari as well.

It is said that a herd of 29 wild elephants entered Nepal from India through the Bahunadangi point and is yet to move back. The Division Forest Office estimates that there are over 60 wild elephants spread across Jhapa, Morang, and Sunsari districts.