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62 elephants in North Shahdol raise human wildlife conflict fears

62 elephants in North Shahdol raise human wildlife conflict fears

A herd of 62 elephants moved through North Shahdol district, Madhya Pradesh, sparking fears of human‑wildlife conflict. The forest department said it is monitoring the elephants and has erected a temporary buffer zone, while local police were told to keep livestock away from the area. Elephants have reportedly entered fields near the town of North Shahdol, potentially damaging crops and posing a danger to residents, the forest department said. Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, forest officials must investigate any human‑elephant encounters and prevent further conflicts, the department added. The department added that an investigation into possible farmer encroachment will begin next week.

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