A growing human-wildlife conflict is plaguing Gasuapara in Meghalaya’s South Garo Hills, where herds of 30 to 40 wild elephants are reportedly invading the area every evening, wreaking havoc on homes, farmlands, and peace of mind.
Terrified villagers have resorted to bursting firecrackers nightly to drive the elephants away, turning what should be a wildlife protection concern into a survival routine. “We are living in fear. They destroy our crops, orchards, and fields. We cannot farm or even sleep in peace,” said one distressed farmer.
Despite repeated complaints to district wildlife authorities, residents claim that no effective response or relief has been provided. On Sunday evening, the elephant herd was again seen near the Tura–Baghmara Road, forcing locals to act immediately with firecrackers in a desperate bid to push the animals back into the forest.
With agricultural activity becoming increasingly impossible, villagers are now appealing for urgent intervention by the forest and wildlife departments. They are demanding not just temporary solutions, but long-term mitigation measures to ensure the safety of both residents and wildlife.
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