In an effort to prevent wild elephant attacks and protect lives, twenty solar streetlights have been installed in the hilly border areas of Durgapur Upazila in Netrokona. The initiative was inaugurated today in the Dahapada area, which lies on the border of Kullagada and Durgapur Sadar Unions. This project was realized through the special initiative of Barrister Kaiser Kamal, Deputy Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad and Member of Parliament for Netrokona-1 (Durgapur-Kalmakanda) constituency.
Long-standing Issue
Local and administrative sources report that residents of these hilly areas have long lived in fear of wild elephants. Frequently, groups of 17 to 30 wild elephants cross the border and wreak havoc in local communities. These elephants destroy farmers' paddy fields, mango, jackfruit, and banana orchards, and occasionally demolish homes. There have been multiple incidents of fatalities due to elephant attacks in the area.
Recent Tragedy
The most recent incident occurred on May 5, when a young man named Partha Rangsa was brutally killed by wild elephants in the Bhabanipur area, which borders Durgapur Sadar Union. Following this tragic event, the Deputy Speaker directed the installation of solar streetlights to ensure the safety of lives and property in the area.
Inauguration and Community Hopes
The formal inauguration of the solar light installation was conducted by Lipson Nakrek, the father of the deceased Partha Rangsa. Indigenous leader Anjan Chisam noted that after the young man's death, their beloved leader, the Deputy Speaker, took immediate action. 'We have received 20 solar streetlights. Elephants usually fear entering human settlements due to the light, but this is not enough for the vast border area. We demand the installation of more lights in the coming months,' he said.
Local resident Zafar Ali shared that wild elephant attacks increase during the ripe paddy and jackfruit seasons. 'Every night, groups of elephants come and cause extensive damage to homes and crops. With the installation of these solar lights, we hope that the people of this area can sleep more peacefully and be protected from elephant attacks,' he expressed.
Community Participation
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Durgapur Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Ahmed Sadat, local representatives, administrative officials, BNP leaders, and residents from all levels. After the installation of the lights, everyone participated in a special prayer for protection from wild elephant attacks and the safety of lives and property in the border areas.
