Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Bakultala, Jan 20: One elephant has been successfully caught and brought under control by the Forest Department in the Bangaon area, falling under Bakultala Panchayat of Middle Andaman, while another elephant is still reported to be in musth in the nearby forest region.
According to information, the incident pertains to the 15 Number and 7 Number areas of Bangaon. Over the past few days, two elephants were reported to have entered a state of musth, a natural condition in male elephants marked by heightened aggression and restlessness.
Forest officials stated that during this period, the elephants moved close to human habitation and caused damage to a banana plantation and a hut. However, officials clarified that there was no rampage, and the situation is being managed with caution and preventive measures.
Pradhan of Bakultala Panchayat, Mr. Narayan Mondal, told Andaman Shikha that the Forest Department acted promptly and managed to capture one elephant from the forest area. Efforts are ongoing to safely control the second elephant.
As a precautionary step, forest personnel have been deployed in the area, particularly along portions of National Highway-4 that pass through the suspected movement zone of the elephants. Vehicle movement is being closely monitored, and protection is being provided to ensure public safety.
During night hours, single vehicle movement is not being allowed through the sensitive stretch of NH-4. Vehicles are being permitted to pass only in convoys under the supervision and escort of Forest Department officials.
Meanwhile, panic has been reported among villagers in nearby areas, though authorities have assured that the situation remains under control and all necessary safety measures are in place.
