Orissa HC expresses concern over elephant deaths in the State, orders to use alternative energy in forest areas

Cuttack: Hearing a writ petition filed by the Government of Odisha with regard to increasing elephant deaths sans corridors, Orissa High Court in Cuttack expressed deep concern today over elephant deaths in the State and ordered the government to make use of alternative energy in forest areas.

The case was combinedly heard following an earlier slam of the National Green Tribunal (NGT)’s to the government. High Court advised to use solar power in lieu of electric energy to help save the pachyderms from getting electrocuted leading to untimely deaths. The court also directed the State government to constitute a joint task force and find out ways to put an end to the growing menace.

Also read: Elephant corridor: Orissa HC interim order brings respite to Odisha Govt from NGT slam

Accordingly, the court has set a deadline to adopt an alternative energy source maximum within the next two months. The CEOs of four electricity distribution companies (Discoms) in Odisha are supposed to hold a meeting within a week for the purpose of reducing jumbo deaths, which is to be chaired by the task force. An action plan must be implemented within the stipulated time limit, the court insisted.

The Chairperson of the joint task force has to submit an affidavit to the High Court regarding the implementation of an action plan.