Elephant rampage in Longla village causes extensive crop damage

August 9, 2024 13 Views No Comment

Morung Express News
Wokha | August 9

Longla Village faced severe damage as four elephants ravaged six paddy fields between 12 AM and 1 PM on August 6. The destructive behavior of these elephants has been an ongoing issue for the past four years, with escalating problems over the last three years.

Nribemo Ngullie, Longla Village Council Chairman reported that the elephants have been disturbing the village for the past three months, adversely affecting 32 farmers. Ngullie confirmed that around 14 elephants are roaming the area, with some residing above the Tchukhyo River and others in the Jayie Valley.

He stressed that the elephants’ repeated visits have led to the complete destruction of various crops and vegetables, including chillies, brinjal, yam, maize, wheat, and sugarcane, as well as fisheries of the villagers.

He stated that last year, farmers faced similar devastation and were unable to harvest their crops. Likewise, even this year, the damage has been so extensive that, the farmers will not be able to harvest like last year. He informed that every year the village collects sugarcane stick around minimum 8 to 10 lakhs in numbers but all is destroyed which have also raised concerned among the villagers.

Ngullie, highlighting the severity of the situation, expressed his frustration over the escalating problem. Despite efforts to drive the elephants away using fire and crackers provided by the Forest Department, the animals return shortly after the villagers’ interventions.

Nribemo Ngullie, Chairman of Longla Village Council, acknowledged that the village has received assistance only from the Forest Department. He commended Forester Zaremo Kithan, Wokha Forest Department for his diligence in inspecting the site whenever issues arise, including two visits this year. Ngullie appreciated Kithan’s efforts to address the villagers’ concerns and provide effective solutions despite ongoing challenges. He also extended his gratitude to the Wokha Forest Department for their support and assistance.

Ngullie also called on the government for urgent assistance, emphasizing the broader impact on the villagers’ livelihoods and their ability to support their families and educate their children.