Rogue Elephant Triggers Emergency Response in Bhubaneswar
A 25-year-old tusker has been causing significant disruption in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, since Monday, with wildlife authorities now planning to tranquilize and relocate the animal to prevent further conflict. The elephant, originating from the Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary, has strayed into human habitation near the Bharatpur area, leading to extensive property damage and heightened safety concerns.
Extensive Damage and Immediate Actions
Officials reported that the elephant damaged boundary walls, several concrete structures, and fencing near and inside the Regional Plant Resource Centre (RPRC). According to Binod Acharya, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Chandaka, the elephant wandered out of the Bharatpur region at noon on Monday and entered populated zones. "We have maintained close surveillance as it damaged properties based on field reports. Our tranquilizing team is equipped with darts to sedate and move the elephant back to Chandaka," Acharya stated.
The tranquilizing teams and other field personnel are monitoring the tusker from a safe distance to avoid direct confrontation. "We cannot approach too closely, but we are observing it carefully and will act at the opportune moment to dart it," a wildlife officer explained.
Underlying Causes of Man-Animal Conflict
This incident highlights ongoing issues in the Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary, which spans over 193 square kilometers. However, elephants are confined to a limited area of approximately 15 square kilometers near Bharatpur, close to urban developments. An adult elephant typically requires at least 10 square kilometers of space, but in Chandaka, 18 to 20 elephants share this restricted zone, leading to frequent incursions into residential areas. This overcrowding exacerbates man-animal conflicts as elephants stray in search of food and space.
Historical Context and Recurring Incidents
This is not an isolated event. In December of last year, Chandaka authorities suspended tourism activities around the Sikharchandi area, a popular tourist spot, after two tuskers entered human settlements, causing panic among residents. Tourism resumed three days later, but police and forest personnel had to maintain vigilance at the site. Sikharchandi hillock, known as a hangout zone, frequently experiences elephant straying due to its proximity to the sanctuary. Elephants often roam the area and return on their own, but their presence in evening gathering spots poses significant risks for conflicts.
The recurring nature of these incidents underscores the urgent need for sustainable wildlife management strategies in the region to balance conservation efforts with public safety.
