Despite the government’s efforts, including deploying Gaja Sathis and Rapid Action Teams, the minister emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and sincerity from forest officials
OdishaPlus Bureau
The Odisha government has initiated an investigation into the untimely deaths of at least 50 elephants within the state this year. The probe is expected to be completed within a month.
State Forest Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia expressed deep concern over the alarming trend, questioning the diligence of forest officials in safeguarding the elephants. In a letter to the state’s Forest and Environment Secretary, Satyabrata Sahu, the minister warned of strict action against those found negligent.
Despite the government’s efforts, including deploying Gaja Sathis and Rapid Action Teams, the minister emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and sincerity from forest officials. Those deemed negligent or inefficient in protecting elephants will be held accountable.
The minister has ordered a thorough investigation into elephant deaths across various forest divisions to determine the exact causes and identify any lapses in security measures.
While in 2024, the All Odisha Elephant Census revealed a slight increase in the elephant population, the rising number of unnatural deaths, primarily attributed to poaching, remains a significant concern. The 2024 census recorded 2,098 elephants in 38 forest divisions, compared to 1,976 in 2017.
