Odisha: Three elephants, including calf, electrocuted by illegal traps

The carcasses of three elephants, including a calf, were discovered on Monday in the Buramal area of Sambalpur's Naktideul forest range, reportedly victims of electrocution from illegal electric wire traps set by poachers targeting wild boars. The grim discovery was made after locals spotted the dead elephants and alerted forest officials, who rushed to the scene to investigate. Preliminary findings suggest the traps, illegally powered by live electricity, were meant for hunting wild boars but ended up killing the elephants.

Outrage erupted among locals, who blamed the tragedy on the forest department’s failure to monitor the area effectively. They alleged that despite regular elephant movement in the region, officials had not addressed the growing menace of illegal traps. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Susanta Nanda, acknowledged shortcomings in vigilance.



“Preliminary reports confirm the elephants were electrocuted by illegal electric wires set by poachers. This is a heartbreaking incident, and I humbly admit there was negligence on the part of the patrolling team and officials,” he said. Nanda assured swift action, directing the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (RCCF) to lead a detailed investigation.

“Strict measures will be taken against those responsible, including officials whose negligence contributed to this tragedy. This is the third such incident in the Rairakhol area, and we are determined to prevent further occurrences,” he added. The incident has highlighted systemic issues, with Nanda pointing to lapses in patrolling despite a recent elephant census in the region.

He stressed the need for accountability from both forest and electricity departments to dismantle illegal setups and prevent future losses. The tragedy has reignited demands for stricter anti-poaching measures, better monitoring of elephant corridors, and greater community involvement in wildlife conservation. The forest department has vowed to enhance patrolling efforts, remove illegal traps, and work with locals to protect the region's wildlife.

The loss of the three elephants is seen as a severe setback to conservation efforts in Odisha, but officials have pledged to take decisive steps to ensure such incidents are not repeated..