A video from Sindhudurg district has surfaced showing locals disturbing a wild elephant, identified as ‘Omkar’, by bursting firecrackers in its vicinity. The elephant, known to frequently roam the forested regions of Dodamarg, Banda, and Sawantwadi, appeared visibly agitated in the footage.
Wildlife enthusiasts have expressed concern over the incident, warning that such behaviour could cause severe distress to the animal and heighten the chances of human–elephant conflict in the region.
Experts have appealed to residents to maintain a safe distance and avoid provoking the elephant. They emphasised that ensuring human safety and animal welfare requires responsible coexistence, particularly in areas where wild elephants are known to migrate.
