Balasore, Dec 19: In a tragic incident on Friday, a wild elephant killed a youth and left two others critically injured after it rampaged through Kalamachua village in Balasore district. The attack took place on a concrete road in the village, where the elephant trampled the youth, identified as Surendra Das from Purvapada village, who died on the spot.

According to reports, the elephant had entered the village in search of food. As the three youths crossed its path, the tusker attacked, knocking Surendra to the ground before attempting to trample the others. While the two survivors sustained serious injuries, they were rushed to the hospital for treatment.

The villagers are living in fear following the attack, with reports of the elephant causing widespread damage across multiple villages, including Natapada, Bateswar, Mahatipur, and Shundira Gandived in the Khaira block. For the past two days, the elephant has been roaming the area, breaking trees and damaging property.

Local residents have raised concerns over the lack of action from the Forest Department, accusing them of negligence. They claim that no preventive measures were taken to manage the situation, leading to the loss of an innocent life. The villagers are demanding accountability and better measures to protect them from such wildlife threats.