Balasore: A pregnant elephant died after falling into a trench dug by the Forest Department in Badapada area of Kuldiha sanctuary in Odisha.

As per reports, the pachyderm fell into the trench while the animal was in the search of food.

On being informed, Forest Department personnel rushed to the spot and initiated a rescue operation.

They used excavators to help the elephant to come out of the trench, but in vain.

After around four hours of the operation, the elephant died in the trench.

The Forest Department said the pregnant elephant was over 10 years old.

The trench was dug to prevent elephants from straying into residential areas.