In recent times, Bangladesh has experienced a concerning increase in conflicts between humans and elephants—a persistent issue leading to destruction of homes, separation of families, and the tragic loss of elephant lives. When an elephant perishes, whether from electrocution or poisoning, it represents more than the fall of a majestic creature; it signifies a breakdown in our ability to coexist with these animals that have been part of this land for generations.
Elephants are not the instigators of these conflicts. Their movements through villages are not driven by malicious intent but rather by desperation. They find themselves navigating through areas that were once their safe passage, now obstructed by roads, settlements, and disappearing forests. With their traditional migratory routes disrupted and food sources dwindling, they are left with no choice but to encroach into human territories.
The consequences are tragic for both elephants and humans. In the past decade alone, at least 124 wild elephants have lost their lives in Bangladesh due to various reasons such as electrocution, shootings, accidents, and natural causes. Additionally, around 80 individuals have lost their lives in these conflicts. This is not conservation; it is a scene of devastation. The lack of government aid for villagers facing crop destruction adds to their fear and frustration, leading to further violent encounters.
Just like humans, elephants feel sorrow and remember their past. How do they perceive live wires obstructing their paths or fields that once nourished them now transformed into danger zones?
Many farmers react not out of cruelty but out of desperation. A single elephant raid can wipe out an entire season’s income, and with minimal government support, fear becomes their constant companion, as the night brings not just darkness but also the threat of elephant encounters.
This is not a mere clash between humans and animals but a tragedy stemming from flawed systems.
Even when authorities claim success in resolving conflicts, reality often contradicts their assertions. Despite assurances of resolution in certain areas, incidents like a recent elephant trampling a child indicate that the root causes remain unaddressed. Activists argue that such events expose the fragility of claims of conflict resolution.
Elephants are not adversaries; they are victims of habitat loss, deforestation, and unfulfilled conservation pledges. As forests disappear and pathways are blocked, they are compelled to enter human territories. What other options do they have?
Wildlife, akin to humans, have a right to inhabit this land, deserving of space, protection, and reverence. They should be able to exist, roam freely, and live without fear.
The inefficiencies of the Forest Department in implementing protective measures and compensatory schemes deepen the divide. Villagers also suffer from poor planning, governmental neglect, and sometimes desperation. No one should be compelled to choose between safeguarding their homes and confronting a wild elephant in the darkness.
Bangladesh must transition from reactive to proactive measures. Legal safeguards should be in place to protect and restore elephant corridors. Swift response teams with advanced tracking and communication tools should be stationed in high-risk zones. Fair and prompt compensation for crop damage is crucial to prevent retaliatory actions. Community engagement is vital to foster understanding and cooperation.
Crucially, wildlife crimes, including elephant killings, must be treated with utmost seriousness. Mere symbolic enforcement of the Wildlife Conservation Act is insufficient.
While Bangladesh has made international commitments to safeguard its wildlife, these pledges ring hollow if elephants continue to perish under our watch, night after night. If the current trajectory persists, elephants may vanish before the next generation gets to witness them, relegated only to history books and fading memories.
Ultimately, the question is not whether we possess the capability to save them but rather if we have the will to do so.