‘Naughty’ tusker rules road: Truckers leave vehicles, run for life in Chhattisgarh’s Balod

RAIPUR: Truckers in Chhattisgarh's Balod district were faced with a jumbo problem early on Monday. A wild tusker appeared suddenly on the highway right in front of them. Trained to avoid disturbing pachyderms in their own territory, the drivers began to reverse their trucks.According to wildlife experts, wild elephants normally avoid contact with humans. But this one was different. The young elephant began to shake its head and chase the trucks. This caused panic among the drivers who began to speed in reverse even as the jumbo kept following them in a rather playful mood. After a while, when the truckers saw no other way, they began to desert their trucks and run back full speed as driving in reverse in the hilly region isn't easy and even dangerous.Forest officials said the elephant had entered Balod from neighbouring Manpur-Mohla district. It was relatively young and perhaps wanted to play with the trucks. Videos of the incident have since gone viral, showing the tusker roaming near Boirdih pump house. "This appears to be the first time this elephant has ventured into Balod. We are tracking its movement and urging villagers to remain vigilant," sub-divisional officer (forest) J L Sinha told reporters.

Alert issued in 20 villages, drivers also cautionedDrivers began to reverse their trucks upon sighting it. Initially sighted near Boddi Dam, the elephant later crossed Gotulmunda barrier and moved towards Chikhli. Officials believe it may head further south into adjoining Dhamtari district through forested routes. Given the giant’s unpredictable movement, the forest department has issued alerts in at least 20 villages. Public announcements are being made in affected villages, warning people not to venture into forests or travel via forest tracks at night. Villagers have also been asked to inform forest staff immediately if the tusker is spotted nearby.