Bolangir, Jan 27: A female elephant's carcass was found in the Muribahal range near Jamilisar village in Bolangir district, raising concerns among local residents and wildlife officials.

The elephant was found dead in the forest early Tuesday, prompting immediate action from the villagers who alerted the Forest Department. Forest officials and staff quickly arrived at the scene and launched an investigation, with local police also joining the inquiry to uncover the circumstances surrounding the death.

While the exact cause of death remains undetermined, authorities have confirmed that a postmortem examination will be carried out to ascertain the cause. Initial findings revealed no external injuries on the elephant's body. Forest officials are considering several potential causes, including electrocution, poisoning, disease, or other unnatural factors.

This incident is part of a troubling trend of increasing elephant deaths in Odisha in recent years, sparking concern among conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts. Many have called for stronger protective measures for elephants, including securing elephant corridors, insulating electric wires, and taking a firmer stance against poaching activities.

In response, the Forest Department has assured the public that a high-level investigation is in progress and vowed to enhance monitoring efforts in vulnerable regions to prevent similar incidents in the future.