Chandrapur: A young man was killed after being attacked by a wild elephant on Vyahad–Sonapur road in Chandrapur district’s Saoli taluka, underscoring the continuing risks posed by human-elephant encounters. The victim, identified as Atul Gohane, died on the spot after the elephant fatally attacked him.According to prelim information, Gohane was riding his motorcycle from Vyahad towards Sonapur when he suddenly came face to face with an elephant at a bend on the forest road. Sensing danger, he abandoned his motorcycle and ran in an attempt to escape. The elephant, however, chased him, caught up within a short distance and inflicted fatal injuries.Forest and police officials reached the spot soon after the incident and initiated the legal procedures. Forest dept sources said that while the herd of wild elephants that had entered Saoli had already moved back towards neighbouring Gadchiroli, this elephant was believed to be the last one remaining in the area. Officials had repeatedly warned villagers not to venture into the affected forest stretch until the animal had safely crossed the region. Despite advisories, 3 persons reportedly entered the area, resulting in the tragic incident.
