Shillong: A herd of 30 to 40 wild elephants is tearing through the South West Khasi Hills. The animals, reportedly originating from the Balpakram Reserve Forest, are crossing the Ranikor River under cover of darkness to feast on local crops. They are destroying jackfruit, pineapple, and betel nut plantations, wiping out the primary income for families in Phutkroh, Mawpud, Rajai, Panchering, Puksora, and Largao.
The animals have moved beyond farm raids. They are now encroaching on human settlements and local infrastructure. In a recent incident, a group of elephants vandalized St. Claret School. Residents report that elephants frequently use local fish ponds to bathe and drink, leaving the water unusable for the villagers. Local frustration is mounting as the damage continues to pile up.
Villagers claim that officials have largely ignored their pleas for help. While some forest staff previously visited to assess losses and process compensation, those interventions have stopped. Residents feel abandoned by the state. During a CM Connect programme, locals raised the issue with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who ordered officials to look into the matter. However, the villagers argue that no substantive action has followed.
The situation remains dire as families watch their livelihoods vanish. "Villagers have urged the state government and the Forest department to take immediate measures to safeguard lives and livelihoods, expedite compensation for losses and implement long-term strategies to reduce human-elephant conflict in the region."
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