Dhenkanal: Two elephants, including an adult female and a six-month-old calf, died due to suspected electrocution near an agricultural field at Godaribili village under Kadalipala Beat, Anlabereni Section of K. Nagar West Range, Dhenkanal Forest Division, during the night of November 14.
On being informed, forest officials immediately initiated necessary action and a preliminary inquiry was undertaken to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident. Prima facie findings indicate that the elephants are suspected to have died due to electrocution caused by an illegal live-wire connection to solar fencing in the agricultural field. The final cause of death will be established following the post-mortem examination and veterinary findings.
A joint site inspection and investigation were conducted by the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (RCCF), Angul Circle, Divisional Forest Officer, Dhenkanal, along with members of the Joint Task Force (JTF), the veterinary team, the Electrical Inspector and officials of Tata Power. The officers jointly inspected the incident site and reviewed the circumstances surrounding the incident. Necessary field-level and technical examinations were also undertaken to ascertain the cause of death and establish accountability.
In connection with the incident, one person has been apprehended for interrogation and further investigation. Necessary legal action is being initiated in accordance with the relevant provisions of law.
The Forest Department is conducting a detailed investigation to establish the exact circumstances of the incident and identify the responsibility of all persons involved. The Forest Department reiterated that the use of illegal live electrical connections and other hazardous electrical devices for crop protection poses a serious threat to wildlife as well as human life. Strict legal action will be taken against those found responsible.
