Begin typing your search above and press return to search.

Army SOS to Forest dept over jumbo herd at Narangi cantt

By STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI, Dec 6 - The Indian Army has activated the QRTs (quick response teams) of all its units inside the Narangi Military Station and has sent an SOS to the State Forest department following sighting of a huge elephant herd inside the cantonment.

�Narangi Military Station is adjacent to the Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary and hence movement and presence of elephants is a routine feature. Availability of wide open areas, vegetation and forest cover ensures permanent presence of 10-14 elephants. Of late, there have been reports of a much larger herd � having up to 24 elephants � in the area. The herd has been sighted at various locations inside the cantonment and have caused destruction, entering the colonies in search of food,� defence spokesman Lt Col P Khongsai said.

Stating that the presence of the herd has posed a threat to human lives, especially children and women, the Army spokesman informed that on December 3 an individual was badly injured while being charged by an elephant.

�The incident occurred on the early hours as the unsuspecting victim was surprised by the presence of a elephant that charged at him. When he took cover behind a structure, the tusker rammed at it, thereby causing serious injuries to him. The injured is currently undergoing treatment at the Basistha Base Hospital ICU,� the Army officer said.

The Narangi Military Station has a strong tradition of being wildlife-friendly and many elephants were rescued inside the cantonment.

�The huge herd is being spotted sometimes near the golf course, sometimes near other facilities. The QRTs of various units have been activated and forest personnel are also on the job. But, the Forest department needs to take more proactive actions,� the spokesman added.

Next Story