CHITWAN, MARCH 5
At least ten people have lost their lives in wild animal attacks in Chitwan National Park and its surrounding areas in the first six months of the current fiscal year. The fatalities were caused by rhinos, elephants, and tigers since mid-July, according to the national park.
Eight people were killed in rhino attacks, while one person each died due to attacks by an elephant and a tiger. Additionally, 14 people sustained injuries, with 12 injured by rhinos and two by elephants, the national park said.
As per the national park regulations, compensation has been provided to the affected families. The families of the deceased received Rs 1 million each, while the injured were reimbursed up to Rs 200,000 for medical treatment. In total, Rs 9,461,931 has been disbursed as relief support for damages caused by wildlife attacks.
To reduce human-wildlife conflict, park authorities have implemented various measures, including grassland and water source management within the park, according to Information Officer Abinash Thapa Magar, as quoted by RSS. Additionally, mesh wires, electric fences, and concrete walls are being installed to prevent wild animals from straying into human settlements. Authorities are also undertaking rescue and relocation efforts for vulnerable communities, Magar added.
Officials noted that some fatal incidents occurred when individuals illegally entered the park or buffer zone.
(WIth Inputs from RSS)
