Bokaro: A high alert has been issued across several villages in Jharkhand after a herd of 30 wild elephants, including two to three pregnant females, was spotted moving through forested areas near Gopo, Palu, Barki Punnu and Kusumdih-Kanidih under Gomia block on Sunday.Forest officials have warned that the herd is likely to remain in the region for an extended period as the pregnant elephants are unable to move quickly.According to forest department officer Sundeep Shinde, elephant herds become significantly more protective and aggressive during pregnancy and after the birth of calves, increasing the risk of human-wildlife conflict.Villages, including Mahuatand, Dhawaiya, Simrabera, Darhabera, Kusumdih, Kanidih, Gaga, Tikahara, Futkadih and Kander have been placed on high alert.Forest department has urged residents to avoid venturing outdoors at night and to stay inside concrete houses whenever possible.“People have also been strictly advised against approaching the elephants, taking photographs or selfies, making loud noises or attempting to drive the animals away using tractors or other means,” said Shinde.Officials warned that anyone found provoking or disturbing the elephants will face legal action under the Wildlife Protection Act. Two Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been deployed in the affected areas, with additional teams from neighbouring regions on standby to respond to any emergency.