SEFT urges mitigation plan for man‑elephant clashes on Odisha‑West Bengal border

The Society for Elephant Welfare and Forestry (SEFT) has formally requested state authorities to devise a mitigation plan aimed at curbing the increasing incidents of man‑elephant conflict along the Odisha‑West Bengal frontier. Recent reports indicate that several villages near the border have experienced crop damage and occasional human injuries as elephants move in search of food. SEFT highlighted that the lack of a coordinated response has heightened tensions between local farmers and wildlife officials.

In its submission, SEFT urged both Odisha and West Bengal governments to implement measures such as early‑warning systems, elephant corridors, and community‑based monitoring to prevent further encounters. The organization also suggested compensation mechanisms for affected families and the promotion of alternative livelihood options to reduce dependence on vulnerable agricultural lands.

Officials from the forest departments of the two states are expected to review the proposal in the coming weeks. Stakeholders, including local panchayats and farmer groups, have been invited to participate in a joint task force that will assess on‑ground realities and prioritize interventions. The outcome will be crucial for balancing conservation goals with the safety and economic security of border communities.