A critically injured elephant that had allegedly consumed an explosive died on Friday morning while undergoing treatment at the Kapilash Elephant Treatment Centre in Dhenkanal district, triggering outrage among wildlife conservationists and animal lovers.
Elephant dies despite intensive treatment
Forest officials said the elephant’s condition deteriorated rapidly after it was spotted in a critical state near Pathargada Sahi in the Bantala forest area under the Angul forest division. Due to the severity of its injuries, the animal was unable to stand and had to be lifted onto Airavat, a specially designed rescue vehicle for elephants, using a crane.
A Rapid Response Team and multiple veterinary units accompanied the elephant during its transfer to the Kapilash Elephant Treatment Centre. Despite continuous medical intervention by specialised teams, the animal succumbed to its injuries on Friday morning.
Severe mouth injuries caused by explosive
Senior veterinarian Dr Pradipta Kumar Singh confirmed that the elephant had sustained deep internal injuries in its mouth after consuming an explosive, believed to have detonated five to six days before it was rescued. The blast caused extensive wounds, making feeding impossible and severely weakening the animal.
Veterinary experts from Kapilash, Angul and Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary were involved in the treatment efforts.
Poaching angle under investigation
The Angul Divisional Forest Officer said the incident could be linked to a trap laid by poachers, although the exact circumstances are yet to be established. A detailed investigation has been ordered, and the Forest Department has announced that a separate probe team will be formed. Officials have assured strict action against those responsible for the alleged cruelty.
Part of a large roaming herd
Officials revealed that the deceased elephant was part of a 51-member herd that regularly moved across forest regions of Dhenkanal, Angul and Talcher. It is believed to have strayed away from the herd and was roaming alone in Angul when the incident occurred.
The elephant’s death has cast a pall of gloom among wildlife enthusiasts, renewing urgent calls for stronger action against poaching and the use of explosives in forest areas