Assam: Two wild elephants cause panic, damage property and livestock in Baksa

Bajali: Two wild elephants caused panic in the Anand Bazar–Hatkhola area of Salbari in Assam’s Baksa district on Thursday, damaging property and livestock.

The elephants are believed to have strayed from Manas National Park and have been roaming the village since early morning, creating fear among residents.

According to local sources, the elephants destroyed several houses and cowsheds, leading to the death of livestock belonging to Santosh Kalita.

Several families have also reported damage to their homes.

Forest officials used public announcements to alert villagers and advised them to stay indoors. Despite continuous efforts by the Forest Department to drive the elephants back toward Manas, the attempt has so far been unsuccessful.

The animals remain near several residential and school areas.

With the elephants close to educational institutions, Bolanath High School in Hatkhola’s Gar Ali and other nearby schools cancelled examinations scheduled for the day.

Students and parents expressed concern over the situation.

The weekly market at Hatkhola was also affected, as the area remained unsafe.

Officials from the Manas Tiger Project, Salbari Sub-Divisional Police, and a large team of forest and police personnel reached the site and are closely monitoring the situation.

Efforts are underway to guide the elephants back to the forest, but authorities say it may take more time to bring the situation under control.