Chaibasa (West Singhbhum): Panic has gripped the Chaibasa region of West Singhbhum as a rogue elephant continues to wreak havoc, leaving 20 people dead in the last 10 days. The growing threat has put the entire district administration on high alert.
Top Forest Official Rushes to Ground Zero
Taking stock of the grave situation, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF–HoFF) Sanjeev Kumar reached Chaibasa from Ranchi early Saturday morning. He held high-level strategy meetings with forest and district officials and interacted with villagers to assure them of safety and swift action.
Crowds and Naxal Area Pose Dual Challenge
Addressing the media, Sanjeev Kumar said one of the biggest challenges in safely capturing or tranquilising the elephant is the large crowd of onlookers. Despite the imposition of prohibitory orders under Section 144, people are gathering to catch a glimpse of the animal, risking their lives.
He further pointed out that the area is Naxal-affected, making night-time operations extremely risky. As the elephant turns most aggressive after dark, the department is proceeding with utmost caution while keeping security concerns in mind.
Jharkhand to Get Its Own Elephant Rescue Centre
On questions about dependence on experts from other states like West Bengal and Odisha, the PCCF said such coordination is part of standard emergency protocol. However, he indicated that the Jharkhand government is seriously considering setting up a dedicated Elephant Rescue Centre in the state, along with developing a trained local expert team.
Senior Officials Camp on Site, Drone Surveillance Intensified
At present, PCCF (Wildlife) Paritosh Upadhyay, CCF S R Nates, and RCCF Smita Pankaj are camping in the affected area. The movement of the elephant is being monitored around the clock using high-tech drone cameras.
Compensation for Victims Announced
Kumar issued clear instructions that there should be no delay in compensation for victims. He announced that all affected families will receive compensation within 10 days.
Under the existing provisions:
- ₹4 lakh will be paid to the families of those killed
- ₹1.5 lakh will be given to the injured
To ensure hassle-free assistance, a forest staff member has been assigned to each victim’s family to complete documentation by visiting their homes.
‘Operation Gajraj’: Full Deployment Details
To control the elephant and prevent further loss of life and property, the forest department has launched ‘Operation Gajraj’ with massive manpower and resources:
- Deaths in elephant attacks: 20
- Officers deployed: 8 IFS (Indian Forest Service) officers
- Quick Response Team (QRT): 60 members
- Forest guards: 40 personnel
- Elephant control experts: 12
- Equipment: 3 tranquiliser guns and 3 high-tech drone cameras
Authorities have appealed to residents to strictly follow safety advisories and avoid venturing near forest areas as the operation continues.
