Jharkhand Elephant Rampage: 17 Dead, Forest Dept Scrambles for Control

• A wild elephant has killed 17 people in Jharkhand's Chaibasa district since January 1, causing widespread panic.
• On January 6 alone, the elephant attacked Babaria village, killing five family members, and later two more in Bada Pasiya and Lampaisai villages.
• Experts attribute elephant aggression to sickness, separation from herd, human encroachment, and the male musth period, especially in July and December.
• Villagers are advised to use loud noises like drums and firecrackers to deter elephants; electric fences are suggested at the administrative level.
• The Forest Department is struggling to control the situation, focusing on planning and providing compensation to affected families.

Why It Matters: Elephant attacks claim 17 lives in Jharkhand; experts explain aggression, urge caution and better management.