Bhubaneswar, November 3: Odisha Forest Minister Ganesh Ram SingKhuntia has directed an investigation into the recent alarming rise in elephant deaths across the state.
Expressing deep concern over reports in the media, Sing Khuntia highlighted that approximately 50 elephants have died under unnatural circumstances this year alone.
In a letter to Additional Chief Secretary Satyabrat Sahu of the Forest, Environment & Climate Change Department, the minister emphasized the urgent need for protective and preventive actions.
While the state government has already implemented various measures, including deploying Gaja Sathis and Rapid Action Teams, SingKhuntia stressed the need for greater vigilance and accountability among forest officials.
The minister underscored that errant officials would face consequences, as the focus must remain on ensuring a safe environment for elephants through statutory protective measures.
He called for division-wise investigations into each incident, with strict actions against any negligence, and requested a comprehensive report within a month.
