11 elephants moved from Sarpang to Zhemgang, destroying water pipes and damaging temporary labor camps. They also consumed alcohol at the camps. The 14-elephant herd that has been lingering in Jigmecholing has been reported to the forestry authorities by the locals. According to forestry officials, this was the first time elephants had been spotted in the region. Elephants’ demand for fresh water, which affects their daily activity, reproduction, and migration, is a major factor in their migration from the southern foothills to higher elevations due to dwindling habitat and food. Even while there might not be many elephant sightings in Zhemgang, the forestry officials intend to set up proactive community response teams to spread the word. Following the residents’ report, the forest officials paid a visit to the spot. Anyone who sees an elephant is advised to notify the authorities right away.
The locals are afraid for their safety because of the elephants that are wandering around. Residents are afraid of these enormous beasts being so close to their homes, even though they haven’t attacked anyone or encroached on the human settlement, according to Trong Mangmi Dorji Wangchuk. The Mangmi further mentioned that the elephants were sighted by the locals who went mushroom hunting in the forest. On April 14, the dzongkhag technical crew fixed the broken water supply.
