KATHMANDU: The entry of 25–30 elephants into the forests of Jhapa and Morang has raised concerns over potential human–elephant conflict in the region. Wildlife conservationists note that there were already around 30 resident elephants in these districts, and the recent influx is expected to heighten risks.
Last week, a herd of elephants moved eastward from the Sundarharaicha forests of Morang, passing through Purbi Gauda and Bahundangi areas, potentially heading toward India. These elephants had first entered Nepal two years ago from Bahundangi Gauda.
Bharat Babu Shrestha, Chief of the Division Forest Office in Jhapa, said the herd that reached the Ratuwamai reforestation area in Jhapa from Morang has partly returned to Morang, while two smaller herds remain in Jhapa’s forests.
Continuous increase in elephant numbers in these limited forest areas has naturally raised the risk of conflict with humans. With inadequate safe habitats and food in the forests, hungry elephants often enter nearby villages, causing problems for local residents.
Devendra Kharel, President of the Bird and Wildlife Conservation Society, clarified that the belief that the herd will directly move to India is incorrect. Elephants entering from Assam to West Bengal have historically migrated between Nepal and India for generations. Currently, Jhapa and Morang forests provide sufficient food like rice, maize, and bananas, so the herd may not move eastward toward India.
In Jhapa, the herd has been spotted near Hamsedumse and Shivsatakshi, with local residents encountering them during the day. The elephants typically rest in dense forest areas and move around during the day in search of food. Those collecting fodder or grazing cattle in the forest face a high risk of attacks.
Kharel also noted that the recently arrived elephants are less aggressive than the resident ones. He warned that provoking or disturbing elephants can lead to human casualties. With food shortages in the forest, elephants are likely to enter agricultural fields and settlements, so communities and relevant authorities must take necessary precautions to minimize conflict.
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