- WOKHA — Increasing
presence of wild elephants in Wokha district has become a persistent threat,
with large herds now permanently settled in certain pockets.
- The most affected regions include elephant corridors under
40 Assembly Constituency Bhandari and 39 Assembly Constituency Sanis, with 37
Tyui and 38 Wokha Assembly Constituency also experiencing disturbances due to
the diminishing forest land—forcing elephants to move into higher-altitude
areas, including residential zones.
- The latest elephant incursion occurred late at night on June
11 in Chanka village, where a herd of at least a dozen elephants ravaged betel
nut and rubber plantations, leading to severe agricultural losses.
Also read: Indian Meteorological Department warns of continued hot, humid conditions in Nagaland
- While the government and the Wildlife and Forest department
continue to frame policies for wildlife conservation, farmers and cultivators
bear the brunt of this crisis.
- Striking a balance between conservation efforts and
protecting local livelihoods has become an urgent challenge. An elderly
resident of Chanka village suggested that the government explore controlled
population management measures, asserting that targeted intervention could help
regulate elephant numbers and mitigate the damage.
- The department concerned has been actively tracking elephant
movements, maintaining population records, and conducting awareness campaigns.
However, there is a growing need for stronger government collaboration to
implement effective relief measures for affected farmers, who continue to
suffer staggering losses.
- Despite ongoing concerns, government assistance for property
damage and loss of life remains inadequate, prompting frustration among local
farmers. For those living in constant conflict with wild elephants, survival
has become an escalating crisis.
