Constant attacks by wild animals on people

Villagers Fear Wildlife Attacks

Residents of Vithura panchayat, living near the forest, face constant threats from wild animals. The proliferation of acacia trees, planted by the forest department years ago, is blamed for these attacks as it disrupts the animals' natural food sources, forcing them to seek food in human settlements. 

The villages of Bonacaud, Vithura, Chennanpara, Peppara, and Anappara are particularly vulnerable, with elephants, tigers, pigs, buffalo, and deer posing serious dangers. Farming has become increasingly challenging due to crop damage by these animals.

The excessive growth of acacia trees, planted in 2014 for pulpwood, has destroyed grass and other vegetation, leaving animals with insufficient food. Efforts to control the trees' growth have been futile. Despite pleas from villagers and promises from the forest department, little action has been taken to address the issue.

The water consumption of acacia trees has led to water shortages, affecting both agricultural activities and daily life. Villagers call upon the government to resolve the acacia tree problem and provide compensation for the damages incurred.

imal Attacks on Farmers in Khed Taluka

The forest department in Khed taluka compensated 108 farmers with Rs 11 lakhs for losses incurred due to wild animal attacks. The compensation was for the death of 135 animals during the previous financial year. Among the animals killed were 71 goats, 20 bucks, 26 goats, six sheep, two horses, and eight bulls, including those attacked by leopards. The compensation was provided in accordance with the proposals submitted to the Forest Department.

Furthermore, there were 62 complaints of wild animals damaging groundnut, soybean, and maize crops along the Chas to Bursevadi stretch. After verifying the complaints, the forest department conducted an on-site inspection and provided compensation totaling Rs 2 lakhs 55 thousand 82 to affected farmers.