Baniyani (Jhapa): Victims of wild elephant attacks in Jhapa have expressed frustration over the delay in receiving financial aid. Despite repeated requests, 533 families affected since July of the current fiscal year have yet to receive any relief.
Archana Puri, the information officer at the Division Forest Office in Jhapa, stated that efforts are underway to provide financial support to the victims. However, as of now, relief funds totaling Rs 12.6 million, requested for 321 families in the first phase and 212 families in the second phase, have not been received.
Puri acknowledged the plight of the victims, affirming that the office is actively pursuing the release of the relief funds. She disclosed that requests for relief were made on October 19 and February 12, totaling Rs 5.8 million and Rs 6.8 million, respectively.
The requested relief funds include compensation for families of the deceased and injured, as well as for damage to property, livestock, and crops caused by elephant attacks. However, despite these pleas, the victims continue to await financial assistance, with their livelihoods severely impacted by the ongoing situation.