Human Elephant Conflict in Jhapa: Nearly Rs 20 Million Distributed in Relief in One Year

Dragon Media Correspondent

Human elephant conflict caused significant human and material losses in Jhapa during the fiscal year 2082/83, with the Division Forest Office distributing a total of Rs 19,990,686 in relief and compensation to affected families and victims.

According to the office, six people were killed in elephant attacks during the year, while 17 others were seriously injured.

The families of those killed received Rs 1 million each, amounting to a total of Rs 6 million in relief.

The 17 people who were seriously injured received a combined Rs 2,660,862 in compensation, according to Division Forest Office Jhapa chief Nathuni Goiwar Yadav.

In addition to human casualties, elephant related incidents also caused damage to livestock, homes, stored grain and crops.

The office distributed Rs 150,000 in compensation for damage to 15 livestock animals.

A further Rs 1,520,264 was provided for losses involving stored grain in 191 cases, while Rs 4,254,560 was distributed for damage to 268 houses and livestock sheds.

Compensation totaling Rs 5.405 million was also provided for crop losses.

The combined amount distributed under all these categories reached Rs 19,990,686 during the fiscal year.

The figures show that human elephant conflict remains a serious wildlife management and human security challenge in Jhapa, with recurring incidents affecting lives, homes, food stocks, livestock and agricultural production.