Bhubaneswar: A male elephant, aged between 35-40 years, was found dead near a trench being dug by the forest department in the Chunakoli area in Chandaka forest on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, on Monday.
The deceased elephant, known in the name of Ramu, reportedly died after being electrocuted.
According to locals, the forest department had installed a live wire fence to prevent wild animals from straying into the area where the trench was being dug. Ramu, who was known to frequent the area, came into contact with the live wire and died. Ramu’s body was recovered with signs of electrocution on his trunk and leg.
Locals, meanwhile, blamed the forest department’s negligence for the pachyderm’s death.
The mighty elephant Ramu used to create terror in the Chandaka area for years by damaging crops and houses at Bharatpur, Andharua, Malim Road, Malipada, Shamapur, Gothapatana, and Khordha Range Ratnapur on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, sources said.
“An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding Ramu’s death. A post-mortem was conducted with the help of a team of doctors from the Nandankanan Zoological Park. The post-mortem report will ascertain the exact cause of death,” said Sharat Chandra Behera, DFO, Chandaka-Dampara.
