Tusker destroys seven houses, shop in Falakata

Alipurduar: An elephant from the nearby Dalgaon forest attacked the workers’ quarters of Tasati Tea Garden in Falakata on Tuesday night, destroying seven houses and a shop.

According to local sources, the elephant broke into the grocery shop of Ajay Oraon, consuming rice, pulses, vegetables and other food items. It also damaged homes belonging to Pradhan Santal, Pradeep Oraon, Kartik Oraon, Nirmal Oraon, Ramlal Oraon, Bishua Oraon and Pradhan Munda. The elephant retreated to the forest early the next morning.

Locals expressed frustration over the repeated elephant attacks. Victim Bishua Oraon said: “Around 1 am, an elephant emerged from the Dalgaon forest and began destroying homes. My family barely escaped.”

Dhananjay Roy, Range Officer of Dalgaon Range, assured that victims would receive compensation as per government rules if they file applications.