By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 17: Authorities are considering deploying trained elephants and mahouts from Assam to drive a herd of wild elephants out of Mawsynram, where they have been damaging crops and threatening villagers for months.
Mawsynram MLA Ollan Singh Suin expressed concern over the herd of approximately five elephants that migrated from Ranikor last September. This marks the first time a herd has settled in the region for an extended period, reportedly attracted by the area’s water sources and plain terrain.
“The presence of these elephants has become a major concern as they have been destroying paddy and betel nut plantations, besides posing a risk to the safety of villagers,” Suin said.
He added that deploying trained elephants is being considered as a last resort if other measures fail.
While forest officials have attempted to chase the animals back toward Ranikor using conventional scaring methods, the herd has repeatedly returned.
Suin has discussed the issue with the Meghalaya Forest department and the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) to explore relocation or deterrence strategies.
The Agriculture department has already completed an assessment of the crop damage and submitted its report to forest authorities. Affected farmers are currently awaiting compensation for their losses.
The MLA cautioned villagers not to provoke the animals, noting that the elephants have become aggressive when chased. He recently raised the crisis in the Assembly, urging the government to prioritize resident safety and the protection of livelihoods.
The Forest and Environment department is expected to make a final decision on the deployment of the Assam team shortly.
