On August 9, 2025, a wild elephant created a chaotic scene near a toll plaza on the Dehradun-Haridwar highway, attacking vehicles and causing disruption. The incident, captured on video, shows the large elephant attempting to cross the busy road, causing alarm among drivers and halting traffic.

The incident occurred near the Lachhiwala toll plaza around 7:15 PM. According to reports, the elephant was trying to cross the highway. Finding its path blocked by fast-moving vehicles, the elephant targeted a car. The car driver managed to escape without reducing speed, avoiding a direct hit.

Forest officials have stated that elephants frequently cross the road near the Lachhiwala toll plaza, as it is part of their natural corridor. While elephants often cross in this area, incidents of them attacking vehicles are rare.

Following the incident, forest officials were dispatched to the scene to manage the situation and ensure the elephant safely crossed the highway. Once the elephant had crossed into the forest, traffic flow returned to normal, and relief was felt by toll plaza employees and drivers.

This event highlights the ongoing challenges of wildlife management in areas where animal habitats intersect with human infrastructure. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of caution and awareness when traveling through areas known for wildlife activity. Authorities often advise against provoking animals with loud music or bright lights, particularly during events like the Kanwar Yatra, when large numbers of pilgrims travel through the region.

In July 2025, a similar incident occurred on the Doiwala-Dehradun highway where elephants, disturbed by loud music and bright lights from Kanwariyas, overturned tractor-trolleys. Forest officials have urged pilgrims and others to avoid camping near forested areas and to refrain from using loud music or bright lights that could agitate wildlife. Increased patrolling has also been implemented in vulnerable sections of the highway where animal sightings are common.

Such encounters underscore the need for strategies to mitigate human-animal conflict, including underpasses or overpasses that allow wildlife to cross highways safely. Public awareness campaigns can also educate drivers and local communities on how to respond to wildlife encounters responsibly.