Elephants Terrorize Villages: Residents Sleep on Rooftops

Families in Bokaro district's Gomia block are experiencing extreme hardship, sleeping on rooftops to escape marauding elephants. Since the beginning of 2026, elephant herds have been raiding villages, resulting in fatalities, destroyed homes, and ruined crops. This situation has caused immense fear, particularly for women, children, and the elderly, who are enduring sleepless nights in the biting cold.

In the last week, at least five individuals lost their lives, with several others sustaining injuries. This has led to significant panic in Gangpur, Badkipunnu, and surrounding areas. Villagers describe their nights as vigilant, listening for warning calls and abandoning their homes after sunset.

The forest department has escalated preventive measures, including continuous patrols and drone surveillance to monitor elephant movements. A special 19-member team from West Bengal has been deployed to aid local efforts. Six quick response teams are also active, gathering information and alerting residents.

Approximately 42 elephants are currently in the Luggu foothills, with a subgroup of five, including a particularly aggressive female, identified as the source of the attacks. District administration officials are prioritizing public safety while working to protect elephant corridors. Plans include installing solar lights, high-mast lights, and solar fencing, alongside strict action against illegal mining that disrupts wildlife.