Tusker dies of electrocution in Odisha’s Keonjhar; 2nd such death in last 10 days

Priya Ranjan Swain Published On : Nov 19, 2023 at 5:30 PM

Bhubaneswar: A tusker reportedly died of electrocution under Telkoi Forest Range of Odisha’s Keonjhar district yesterday night.

The carcass of the five-year-old tusker was recovered from Nilapasi Sahi under Bimala Forest Section of Telkoi Range in Keonjhar Forest Division today morning.

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Preliminary investigation suggested that the sub-adult tusker died after it came in contact with the solar fence installed near a paddy field at Nilapasi Sahi. The Forest department has detained three villagers in connection with the death of the tusker, said Keonjhar Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Dhanraj HD.

“A herd of 12 elephants was found roaming in Bimala Forest Section in last few days. The tusker might have come in contact with the solar fence in between 8 pm and 10 pm last night. We have initiated a probe into the incident. Stern action will be initiated against those found guilty in the incident,” added the DFO.

Notably, another tusker had died of electrocution near Bhadimara Juang Sahi under Telkoi Forest Range in Keonjhar on November 10.

At least 14 elephants have died due to different reasons in Telkoi Range in last 12 years, said a source.