Elephant dies during treatment after consuming explosive in Odisha

An elephant that was critically injured after allegedly consuming an explosive has died on Friday morning while undergoing treatment at the Kapilash Elephant Treatment Centre in Dhenkanal. The animal had been shifted to the centre in Airavat, a vehicle specially designed for elephant rescue operations, after its condition deteriorated rapidly.

Forest officials said the elephant was unable to stand due to the severity of its injuries and had to be lifted onto the rescue vehicle with the help of a crane. A Rapid Response Team and veterinary medical teams accompanied the elephant during the relocation. Despite continuous medical intervention, the elephant succumbed to its injuries.

Deep Injuries, Poaching Angle Suspected

The elephant was first spotted in a critical condition near Pathargada Sahi in the Bantala forest area under the Angul forest division. Senior veterinarian Dr Pradipta Kumar Singh confirmed that the animal had sustained serious injuries after consuming an explosive, suspected to have occurred around five to six days prior. The blast caused deep wounds inside the elephant’s mouth.

Special veterinary teams from Kapilash, Angul and Satkosia were engaged in its treatment. The Angul Divisional Forest Officer stated that the incident could be linked to a trap laid by poachers, though the exact circumstances are still under investigation.

Also Read: Sundargarh group clash: Prohibitory orders under Sec 163 of BNS remain in force, educational institutions shut

Investigation Ordered, Grief Among Animal Lovers

The Forest Department has initiated a detailed probe into the incident, and officials said a separate investigation team will be formed. Strict action will be taken against those responsible for the alleged cruel act.

The elephant was part of a 51-member herd that frequently moved through forest areas of Dhenkanal, Angul and Talcher. It reportedly got separated from the herd and was roaming in Angul at the time of the incident. The death has created a mournful atmosphere among animal lovers and wildlife conservationists.