Cuttack: An elephant was found dead in Athagarh forest range of Cuttack district on Thursday morning, with preliminary investigations suggesting electrocution to be the cause. According to forest officials, locals spotted the carcass near Kulailo crusher field and alerted authorities. A team from Athagarh forest division led by divisional forest officer (DFO) J D Pati went to the spot.
“The elephant is suspected to have been electrocuted as it likely got entangled in wires, which were covered by creepers. In its struggle to break free, it may have broken the insulators, discharging a 33 KV current that resulted in its death. Post-mortem was conducted, and we are awaiting the report to know the exact cause of death,” said Pati.
The samples were sent to Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, for further examination. The carcass was later cremated in the presence of the veterinary officer and other officials, informed Pati.
Locals have expressed anger over the incident alleging that forest officials failed to conduct regular patrolling. Residents claim the elephant was roaming in the locality for the past few days after getting separated from its herd. “Had the forest department conducted patrolling regularly, this incident could have been prevented,” said Ramesh Behera, a resident of Athagarh.