Monkey Troops Crowd Akaroli Roads as Residents Report Attacks, Home Intrusions

Monkey menace leaves villagers distressed in Akaroli village

Rajat Malhotra

Chandausi: Residents of Akaroli village in Block Baniyakheda are struggling with what they describe as a severe monkey menace. Troops of monkeys have occupied the village’s lanes, neighbourhoods and main road, leaving residents frightened and, in some cases, forcing them to remain inside their homes.

The situation has also made families afraid to send children to school. Residents said the monkeys remain active in different parts of the village through the day, making routine movement difficult.

A picture from the village shows around 25 to 30 monkeys gathered in the middle of a road. Some can be seen fighting among themselves, while others are running around in search of food. The gathering has made it difficult for e-rickshaws and pedestrians to pass through the road.

Monkeys enter homes and take food

Residents said the monkeys have become so fearless that they enter the roofs, courtyards and kitchens of houses. They allegedly take away grain, fruits and vegetables, bread and other food items whenever they get the opportunity.

According to the villagers, the monkeys have also attacked women, children and elderly people several times when they were opposed. Several people have been injured in these incidents, they said.

Local residents Rampal, Chhote Lal and Sunita Devi said a troop of monkeys enters the village as soon as morning begins and remains there until evening. They said children can no longer play outside alone, while women are also finding it difficult to go to the roof to dry clothes.

The villagers also said that monkeys are damaging farmers’ crops. The continued presence of the animals has added to the difficulties faced by people in the village, they said.

Villagers allege no action after complaints

Residents alleged that they have complained several times about the problem to the village head, the Forest Department and the tehsil administration. However, they said they have received only assurances so far.

The villagers said no team has yet been sent to Akaroli to capture the monkeys. They have now appealed to the District Magistrate of Sambhal and the Forest Department for immediate action.

They have demanded that a team be sent to the village as soon as possible to capture the monkeys and release them in the forest. The residents said this would help them get relief from the daily fear and inconvenience caused by the monkey menace.