Elephant chases terrified villagers onto roofs in rampage that left three injured

They're one of the most beloved and affectionate animals in the world, but this footage shows just how dangerous elephants can be at times.

The video shows a young male that went on a rampage through the village of Khordha in India, where at least three people were injured as they tried to get out of its way.

The animal sparked panic as terrified villagers were forced to climb onto the roofs of their homes to find a place of safety.

The elephant ran around wildly and caused havoc as it attacked people and homes, damaged property and trampled bicycles and scooters, according to local media.

Footage captured by one of the villagers, who was hiding in a doorway, shows the elephant ploughing into a cluster of bicycles - sending some of them flying - as it runs around.

Later, villagers who sought refuge on a roof look on as the animal storms around during Saturday's rampage.

The elephant then stood on railway tracks for some time, causing delays for a few trains, as it dug its foot into the rocks like a bull does before charging.

It later disappeared into the forest on its own.

Local officials said three people suffered minor injuries as they tried to escape the elephant.

Earlier this month, video showed two male elephants bringing traffic to a halt in Thailand as they went head-to-head in what was believed to be a fight over a female they were hoping to breed with.

The Asian elephant is listed as endangered following a staggering 50 per cent population decline in the last 75 years.

The main threats include loss of habitat and poaching.

According to Save the Asian Elephants, there are just 40,000 still alive today. Of those, 30,000 are wild (60 per cent in India).

Reality TV star Kim Kardashian sparked outrage recently when she was pictured riding a captive elephant while on holiday in Bali.

Meanwhile, more than 130,000 people have signed a petition calling on a zoo in Thailand to stop shows where elephants are forced to perform underwater tricks.

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