Vikash Sharma

Bhubaneswar: The scenes of two wild elephants cooling themselves inside a water body drew the attention of onlookers near Bharatpur reserved forest area on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar.

The jumbos were seen taking bath and playing inside the water body for over 45 minutes. A large number of people gathered near the place after getting information about the presence of elephants close to the human settlement.

Sources said a herd of five elephants was spotted near Bharatpur yesterday. It is suspected two elephants might have strayed near the water body.

"There is absolutely no reason to panic as the area is well protected with adequate fencing. Both the officials of forest department and police are alert and keeping a close watch," said DFO Kedar Swain.

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