Bhubaneswar: A woman died after being attacked by a herd of elephants in the wee hours of Friday in the Saida area under Kuchinda block of Sambalpur district.
The deceased has been identified as Anjali Kusum.
According to local sources, she had gone to attend nature’s call in the early morning when she suddenly came face to face with a herd of six elephants. The animals attacked her on the spot, resulting in her death at the site of the incident.
It is pertinent to mention that elephant movement and related disturbances have been reported in the Kuchinda area since Wednesday. The presence of the six-elephant herd has heightened concern among residents.
Forest department officials reached the spot after receiving information about the incident and have begun an investigation. Efforts are also underway to drive the herd away from the locality.
Residents have been advised to avoid going alone into forests or areas frequented by elephants, particularly during early morning and evening hours, and to strictly follow instructions issued by the forest department.
