Dhenkanal: The death of a wild elephant due to electrocution at a private farmhouse in Rajmohanpur under Hindol Sub-Division has triggered swift action from the Forest department and district administration. The elephant was reportedly buried inside the farmhouse.
According to reports, the concerned administration officials reached the spot on Monday, exhumed the elephant carcass with the help of a JCB machine and launched a probe.
Preliminary findings indicate the elephant died after coming into contact with an illegally electrified fence put up around the farm. Police have detained three persons such as the farm owner, a JCB operator, and a security guard in connection with the case. Besides, the administration has also seized the farmhouse premises.
Further legal action will be taken based on the post-mortem report and the investigation’s final findings, said sources.
Dhenkanal DFO Lalit Kumar Patra expressed grief over the incident and appealed to the public not to install illegal electric or electrified solar fences for crop protection.
“If you get information about elephant movement in any area or notice anyone using illegal electric fences, inform the nearest forest office immediately. Public cooperation is essential to prevent such tragedies and ensure wildlife protection,” ,” Patra said.
The DFO added that the forest department will continue to take strict action against those violating the Wildlife Protection Act.
