Bargarh, Aug 26: A heart-wrenching incident unfolded in Dhandupali village under Temri Gram Panchayat of Paikmal block, Padampur subdivision, where an elderly couple lost their lives in a late-night elephant attack.

The victims, identified as Balaram Rana (59) and his wife Sashi Rana (55), were reportedly staying in a makeshift shelter near their farmland to protect their crops when the attack occurred.

The couple had been engaged in paddy cultivation and water management in their field, a common practice among local farmers during the harvest season.

Upon receiving the news, Temri Sarpanch Dillip Behera rushed to the spot along with villagers and family members. The incident has sparked grief and concern across the region.

Sarpanch Behera has urged the government to provide immediate financial assistance and compensation to the bereaved family.

This tragic event highlights the growing tension between expanding human settlements and wildlife habitats. With elephant movement becoming increasingly unpredictable, rural communities remain at constant risk, especially during crop seasons when human presence near fields intensifies.