In the hilly areas of Nalitabari upazila, the movement of wild elephants has increased, causing growing concern among farmers over their standing Aman paddy crops. To protect their fields, many farmers have been spending sleepless nights, lighting torches to keep the elephants away.
According to local sources, in the past few days, around 40 to 45 wild elephants have entered Jhorapara village of West Shamschura under Poragaon Union, destroying about five acres of paddy fields belonging to 14 to 15 farmers. The elephants reportedly consumed and trampled the crops.
During a visit to the area on Friday afternoon, it was learned that the herd descended into the locality on Thursday night in search of food. The attack left at least 15 families affected, including those of freedom fighter Mosharraf Hossain, Said Mia, Shamsunnahar, Julekha Begum, and Abu Bakar of West Shamschura village. The elephants crushed the paddy plants, leaving the fields flattened.
Freedom fighter and farmer Mosharraf Hossain said, “A herd of elephants came late at night and destroyed about two acres of my Aman crop. This happens almost every season. We are appealing to the government for compensation.”
Farmer Julekha Begum said, “I cultivated nearly two acres of land with borrowed money. Now all my crops are gone. I have three children—how will I survive? Only government assistance can save us.”
Residents said the elephants remain in the deep forest during the day but come down to the paddy fields after dusk. Farmers are guarding their crops through the night with torches and loud noises, yet the rampage continues.
Madhutila Forest Range Officer Dewan Ali stated that the damaged fields have been inspected and a list of affected farmers has been prepared. He added that the victims will receive compensation in accordance with government regulations upon submission of formal applications.
