Mayurbhanj, Aug. 20 (UDN): A young man was trampled to death after coming face-to-face with a herd of elephants in Mayurbhanj district’s Betnoti forest range, triggering fresh concerns over rising human-elephant conflict in the area.

 Repreaentational Image 

The deceased was identified as Kamalakanta Singh, a resident of Mukund village under Morada.

Elephant Herd Enters Village

According to reports, a herd of around 13 elephants entered Betnoti village while searching for food, creating panic among local residents.

As villagers attempted to drive the animals away, Singh reportedly moved towards the herd. The elephants then attacked him, leaving him critically injured.

He was rushed to Baramile Hospital for treatment. However, he later succumbed to his injuries.

Fear Grips Local Residents

The incident has left residents of the area concerned about their safety, particularly amid repeated elephant incursions into human settlements.

The Forest Department had reportedly been monitoring the movement of the herd. However, residents have expressed dissatisfaction over the continuing elephant menace and called for stronger measures to prevent elephants from entering villages.

The latest death has once again highlighted the risks faced by communities living close to elephant habitats in Mayurbhanj.