Three elephant incursions leave Chemor orchard owners worried
IPOH: Years of hard work developing fruit orchards in Bukit Bangkong, Chemor, are under threat after wild elephants raided the area three times within weeks, damaging fruit trees, water tanks, pipes and ponds.
Elephant incursions have damaged fruit orchards in Chemor, Bukit Bangkong, causing concern among local farmers. The elephants were first spotted on September 27, returning on October 3 and October 11, causing damage to fruit trees, water tanks, pipes, and ponds. Abdul Rahim Ahmad, representing the Bukit Bangkong Hulu Cerom farmers' group, expressed worry that the elephants may return for a fourth or fifth time, potentially destroying crops and property.
The damage includes broken branches on jackfruit, coconut, and durian trees, as well as damaged water tanks and pipes. Over 40 coconut trees in Abdul Rahim's orchard alone have been affected, with neighboring farmers also suffering losses. The elephants have entered several ponds, adding to repair costs. Abdul Rahim has lodged a police report and urged the authorities to take action, including driving the elephants away or relocating them.
Another orchard owner, Omar Abdullah, 70, said the repeated incursions affected not only farmers' livelihoods but also their morale. He called for support from authorities to help restore confidence in farming. Perak Perhilitan director Dr Pazil Abdul Patah confirmed receiving complaints and monitoring the area, with plans to capture the elephants.
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