Wildlife Encroachments Create Tension for Villagers Near Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary

Encroachment of forests has forced wild animals into human habitats, causing tension for villagers near Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary in the Missamari region of Sonitpur district. Villagers are frequently dealing with wild elephants entering fields and villages, causing significant damage to agriculture. Local resident Gopal Deka reported that despite forest workers’ efforts to chase the elephants back, incursions continue, destroying paddy fields, vegetables, and fruit trees in several villages.

Nocturnal raids by elephants persist, with some reports of them breaking into houses for food. Additionally, the region faces a burgeoning monkey population, which has increased significantly over the past decade. Monkeys have been ransacking homes and temples, causing injuries and widespread damage. Residents have had to upgrade their homes and are requesting government and forest department intervention to manage the wildlife and return the primates to forest areas.