Tusker electrocuted in Odisha’s Deogarh: second death in a week raises concern

A tusker was found dead after coming in contact with an electric fence in the Rengalbeda section under Odisha’s Deogarh Forest Division on Wednesday morning, sparking outrage among wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists. 

The incident took place near Kaunsitaila village, where the carcass of the elephant was spotted lying by the roadside.

According to reports, the elephant is believed to have died after touching a solar-powered fence that had been illegally connected to a live electricity line. Locals had installed the fencing to protect their paddy crops from wild animals. 

However, instead of relying solely on solar current, which delivers only a mild deterrent shock, some farmers allegedly tapped the fence into direct power lines, turning it into a deadly trap.

Forest officials, upon receiving information from villagers, rushed to the spot and launched an investigation. A post-mortem examination has been ordered to confirm the exact cause of death. 

Sources said the tusker might have died late Tuesday night when it came in contact with the electrified wire while moving through the fields.

This is the second such incident in the region within a short span of time. Just a few days ago, another tusker was electrocuted in Mahasindhu village under similar circumstances. 

The repeated deaths have once again highlighted the growing conflict between humans and wildlife in the area.

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Officials from the Forest Department are yet to issue a statement, but wildlife activists have urged authorities to take strict action against those responsible and to ensure proper regulation of electric fencing near forest zones.