SHILLONG, July 4: Growing incidents of human-elephant conflict in South West Khasi Hills have left farmers struggling to protect their crops and livelihoods, with villagers alleging that repeated raids by wild elephant herds are causing extensive destruction across several villages under the Ranikor C&RD Block.
Residents of Phutkroh, Mawpud, Rajai, Panchering, Puksora, Largao and adjoining areas said wild elephants have been regularly entering farmlands and orchards, destroying jackfruit, pineapple, betel nut and betel leaf plantations that serve as the primary source of income for many families.
According to villagers, the damage has been so severe that many farmers have been unable to harvest or sell their produce this year, resulting in significant financial losses.
Local residents said the presence of wild elephants in villages such as Nongnah, Mawpud, Balat and Ranikor was virtually unknown a decade ago. However, over the past few years, herds have increasingly taken shelter in forest patches near human settlements, leading to frequent encounters and crop depredation.
Villagers believe a herd of around 30 to 40 elephants has migrated from the Balpakram Reserve Forest and now moves across various parts of the district. The animals are reported to cross the Ranikor River and enter villages during the night, destroying crops, orchards and, in some cases, residential houses.
On June 27, a herd of elephants reportedly entered Panchering, Puksora, Phutkroh and Largao villages, causing extensive damage to crops and property.
Villagers said the elephants are no longer confined to agricultural areas and have increasingly begun entering human settlements.
Fish ponds have also been affected, with elephants frequently using them for bathing and drinking.
In another incident, a separate group of elephants reportedly vandalised St. Claret School, raising further concerns over the growing threat posed by elephant movement in populated areas.
Residents alleged that despite repeatedly informing Forest and Wildlife officials about the incidents, there has been little response from the authorities.
While officials previously visited affected areas to assess losses and process compensation claims, villagers claimed such interventions have become increasingly rare.The issue was also raised before Conrad K. Sangma during a CM Connect programme.
Villagers said the chief minister had directed the concerned officials to examine the matter, provide assistance to affected farmers and take steps to mitigate the recurring conflict.
However, residents alleged that no detailed inquiry or damage assessment has been conducted so far, leaving many affected families without compensation or support.
With crop losses mounting and elephant incursions becoming more frequent, villagers have urged the state government and the Forest department to take immediate measures to safeguard lives and livelihoods, expedite compensation for losses and implement long-term strategies to reduce human-elephant conflict in the region.
