Jajpur: Panic gripped Sukindagarh and adjoining areas under the Sukinda forest range on Tuesday morning after a wild tusker strayed into the locality from Kapilash forest in neighbouring Dhenkanal district.

The elephant was spotted moving through the Sukinda area, including along the national highway and nearby villages, triggering concern among residents. The sighting of the wild tusker in inhabited areas prompted locals to alert the forest department.

According to reports, the elephant entered the area in the morning, but no injuries or damage to property were reported till the latest information. Residents remained apprehensive as the animal moved through areas frequented by people and vehicles.

Forest staff attempt to drive tusker back

After receiving information from locals, personnel of the Sukinda forest department reached the area and launched efforts to guide the elephant back towards the forest. Forest staff continued to monitor its movement and attempted to prevent it from straying further into human settlements.

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The presence of the tusker along the highway and in nearby villages raised concerns over the possibility of encounters with people. Residents were urged to remain alert and avoid approaching or provoking the animal.

Human-elephant conflict remains a concern

Elephants occasionally straying into human settlements can pose risks to both people and wildlife, particularly when animals enter busy roads or agricultural areas.

Forest personnel are continuing efforts to steer the tusker towards its natural habitat. Residents have been advised to maintain a safe distance and inform forest officials about the elephant’s movement rather than attempting to chase it themselves.

The situation is being monitored by the forest department, while further updates on the elephant’s movement are awaited.