The state government has already implemented various initiatives to reduce elephant mortality, including the deployment of Gaja Sathis—community members trained to assist in elephant protection—and rapid action teams tasked with responding to human-elephant conflict. Despite these efforts, the frequency of elephant deaths due to unnatural causes, such as electrocution, poisoning, and accidents, remains a pressing issue.
Bhubaneswar: In a serious development, the state government has launched a detailed investigation into the unnatural deaths of around 50 elephants over the past six months. The spate of fatalities has raised concerns about the safety and conservation of the state’s elephant population, prompting swift action from top officials.
Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia expressed deep concern over the recurring incidents, emphasizing the need for accountability. “Responsibility will be fixed on officers found negligent or inefficient in safeguarding the lives of these animals,” the minister stated in a press briefing on Sunday.
Singkhuntia has instructed the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of Forest, Satyabrata Sahu, to conduct a division-wise investigation into each of the elephant deaths. He has ordered stringent action against any individuals found responsible for lapses in elephant protection. The ACS has been directed to submit a progress report on the investigation and any disciplinary actions taken within one month.
Describing the situation as “very alarming,” Minister Singkhuntia stressed that the Forest Department must take immediate and robust measures to prevent further losses. “We are facing a critical time where additional care and protective steps are required to curb these deaths. The safety of our elephants must be prioritized,” he said.
The state government has already implemented various initiatives to reduce elephant mortality, including the deployment of Gaja Sathis—community members trained to assist in elephant protection—and rapid action teams tasked with responding to human-elephant conflict. Despite these efforts, the frequency of elephant deaths due to unnatural causes, such as electrocution, poisoning, and accidents, remains a pressing issue.
“While we’ve made strides with programs like Gaja Sathis, more vigilance and sincerity from forest officials is needed now more than ever. We must create a safe and secure environment for our elephants, ensuring all statutory protective measures are in place. Officers who fail in their duties will face consequences,” the minister added.
The directive comes at a time when conservationists and wildlife advocates have been voicing concerns about the rising incidents of elephant deaths, many of which have been attributed to human-wildlife conflict, habitat loss, and poaching. The investigation aims to identify the root causes and establish long-term solutions to protect the state’s elephant population, one of the largest in the country.
The state’s forest department has been under increasing scrutiny for its handling of wildlife protection, and the results of the inquiry are expected to shape future policy decisions aimed at conserving these majestic creatures.
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