Another life claimed by elephant in Hazaribag, toll rises to 2

Hazaribag: As a rogue tusker continues to go on a rampage in West Singhbhum killing 19th person in over a week, another elephant, which got separated from its herd, in Hazaribag claimed its second victim on Friday. It had trampled one farmer and injured his wife on Thursday.The deceased in the latest incident has been identified as Ganesh Gope (57), a farmer. The incident happened at Banha village under Katkamdag police station area. According to officials, at around 5 am, Gope stepped out of his house to relieve himself when the wild elephant suddenly attacked him, leading to his death on the spot.The incidents have triggered panic in the area. Ganesh is survived by his wife, Rohni Devi, four daughters, and a son.Forest officials said that, as per norms, compensation of Rs 4 lakh is payable to the next of kin. An amount of Rs 50,000 was handed over immediately for last rites, while the remaining Rs 3.5 lakh will be released after completion of formalities.Sadar MLA Pradip Prasad has directed forest department to work out a concrete and permanent solution to the recurring human-elephant conflict. The MLA later also spoke to the deputy commissioner Shashi Prakash Singh in this regard.Villagers said a herd of elephants roamed in and around Katkamdag block for the past several days, and the forest department was informed repeatedly, but no effective measures were taken.Forest range officer Satendra Kumar Chaudhary said, “Teams are on alert, and efforts are underway to push the elephant towards the forest. We are appealing to villagers to remain cautious.”