Buried for years, skeleton of tusker ‘Ramu’ recovered in Chandaka Sanctuary

In a significant development, the skeleton of ‘Ramu’, a tusked elephant from the Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary near Bhubaneswar, has been recovered after being excavated from beneath the soil. The recovery marks an important step in documenting and preserving the remains of the elephant.

A specialised team of experts, led by renowned zoologist Shiva Prasad Parida, has initiated the process of cleaning the recovered bones using chemical methods. The scientific procedure aims to remove soil, decayed flesh, and other infectious materials that remained attached to the bones after burial.

Chemical Process to Preserve the Bones

The cleaning is being carried out carefully with the use of chemical substances to ensure the bones are thoroughly disinfected and preserved. This process is crucial to prevent contamination and deterioration, while also maintaining the structural integrity of the skeleton.

Also Read: Elephant critically injured after suspected explosive blast in Mayurbhanj

240 Bones, Skull and Tusks Recovered

According to officials, a total of 240 bones from the elephant’s body have been recovered. These include the skull and both tusks of ‘Ramu’. After successful excavation and cleaning, all the bones have been formally handed over to the Forest Department.

"We are using detergent powder and cleaning it with brushes. As the bones are very heavy, it will take some time. We are hopeful after the chemical treatment and cleaning process. Expect that work will be completed in 3 to 4 months," said Subhendu Mallik, Former Honorary Wildlife Warden.

Remains Shifted to Forest Office

Following the recovery, the skeletal remains have been kept at the Bharatpur Forest Range Office for safekeeping. The Forest Department is now responsible for their custody and future use.

The recovery and preservation of ‘Ramu’s’ skeleton highlights the scientific approach being adopted in wildlife conservation and documentation. The initiative not only safeguards important biological remains but also reflects continued efforts to study and protect Odisha’s rich wildlife heritage through systematic and expert-led processes.