Anandpur: Panic gripped several areas of Anandpur in Odisha's Keonjhar district on Saturday after a wild tusker strayed into human settlements, killing a woman and damaging property before moving towards a nearby forest.

According to reports, the elephant was first spotted early in the morning near an orchard behind Anandpur College and later entered different parts of the town, triggering fear among local residents. As news of the tusker's presence spread, large crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of the animal, forcing it to move from one area to another.

The tusker allegedly trampled a woman to death in a mango orchard near the Anandpur cinema hall. The deceased has been identified as Manju Nath, 55, of Fakirpur village. 

The elephant also damaged two bicycles during its movement through the area.

Forest department personnel rushed to the spot and launched efforts to drive the elephant back towards the forest. However, the animal continued moving through several villages, including Salabani, Khadipal, Belda, Baladuan and Balipasi.

Tusker damages property, feeds on mango orchards along route

Residents said the tusker entered orchards and homesteads along its route, feeding on mangoes and damaging several trees. The movement of the elephant created panic among villagers, who remained indoors or maintained a safe distance as forest officials monitored the situation.

The tusker is currently reported to be near the Banshagad forest area. Forest department teams, led by Anandpur Ranger Naba Kishore Nayak, are keeping a close watch on the animal and taking measures to prevent any further loss of life or property.

Officials have urged people not to approach the elephant or attempt to chase it, and to immediately inform forest authorities about its movement. The department is continuing efforts to safely guide the tusker back into the forest.