Growing elephant deaths cause concern in Odisha

The growing number of jumbo deaths in Odisha has worried wildlife lovers. At least thirty elephants have died so far this year mainly due to accidents and poaching.

On July 25, a male tusker was found dead inside Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary in Balasore district. The jumbo was allegedly shot dead by poachers and its tusks removed.

A tusker died of injuries in Tablei-Deogaon Reserve forest under Dhama forest range in Sambalpur on 7th August. The tusker had wounds in its left leg. The people of area had alleged that the forest officials didn't take proper care of the injured elephant leading to its death. However, officials denied the allegations, saying they tried hard to treat the tusker.

Two elephants died and a baby elephant suffered injuries at Nambira in Keonjhar district when a goods train hit them 16th August. Another jumbo succumbed to illness in Patana forest range under Atei Reserve forest in Keonjhar district August 2.

Though the state government may feel jubilant over increase in numbers of elephants in last two years, but the recent deaths should be a cause of concern for the government.

In 2010, there were 1886 elephants in the state, where as in 2012 this number increased to 1930. Despite the death of elephants, mostly due to poaching and electrocution during last two years the population of pachyderms has increased.

According to official report, 149 elephants died due to different reasons during last two years. 51 elephants died between 2009-10, while this figure rose to 83 during 2010-11. However, in  2011-12 it came down to 66.

"The way the elephants are dying is really a matter of concern. The state government should take urgent measure to protect the elephants," said Gauhar Abedin, a wildlife activist. He also alleged that the state government is responsible for random deaths of elephants.

Gauhar further questioned as to why the government does not give posting to officers, who are specially trained for wild life, in elephant reserves.