Angul: In a major relief for residents of Angul district, the Forest Department on Wednesday successfully tranquilized and captured a wild elephant that had allegedly been involved in multiple human fatalities in the area.
The elephant was located in a forest near Kusumapat following an extensive tracking operation aided by drone surveillance. A special team of forest personnel and veterinarians subsequently tranquilized the animal and secured it.
After being sedated, the elephant was lifted onto a transport vehicle with the help of a crane and shifted to Kulasinha Nursery, where it is currently under medical observation and treatment.
Forest officials said the animal is stable and healthy. A team of three veterinarians has been deployed to monitor its condition. Following treatment, the elephant is likely to be relocated to the Similipal landscape in Mayurbhanj district, although the final decision will be taken after approval from senior authorities.
The capture of the elephant has brought considerable relief to local residents, who had been living in fear following a series of incidents attributed to the animal. According to local sources, the elephant had trampled two persons to death on the same day in separate incidents at Chandanpur and Madhupur villages.
Speaking on the development, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Angul said a detailed report would be sent to higher authorities and a decision regarding the animal’s permanent relocation would be taken thereafter.
Residents welcomed the Forest Department’s action, expressing hope that the removal of the elephant would help restore a sense of safety in the affected areas.
