Keonjhar, Jan 6: A herd of 25 wild elephants continues to disrupt the Patana Range of Keonjhar district, with significant damage reported late at night. The elephants have destroyed large amounts of paddy crops and, in some cases, damaged five homes, consuming rice and other grains stored inside.

The herd's destructive path included three homes in Kiapada village and two homes in Khuntapada village. Among the damaged properties, the homes of Dibyalochana Munda and Kshetra Munda in Khuntapada were severely affected. The elephants in Kiapada also destroyed the homes of Bhagirtha Naik, Saudamini Mahanta, and Manguli Naik.

Currently, the herd has set up camp near the Kendeipashi Shani Mandir area, with six tuskers, 11 females, and eight young elephants in tow. Villagers in the area are living in fear as the herd is scattering across different parts of the locality. The Forest Department has intensified surveillance on the elephants, keeping a close watch on their movements to prevent further damage.