Odisha has witnessed a disturbing rise in human-wildlife conflicts over the past five years, claiming 799 human lives and injuring 1,962 people, Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Khuntia informed the Assembly on Tuesday.
Responding to a query from MLA Padmalochan Panda, the Minister revealed that most incidents involved elephants straying into villages in search of food, leading to crop loss, property damage, and human casualties.
Dhenkanal District Tops the List
Dhenkanal district emerged as the worst affected, recording 147 deaths — the highest in the state. Frequent elephant movement in the area is attributed to habitat loss and shrinking forest cover, forcing the animals into human settlements. Rapid urbanization and deforestation have further intensified these conflicts.
Wildlife Deaths Also Rising
The data also revealed alarming wildlife mortality figures. In the last two years alone, Odisha recorded 832 wildlife deaths, including elephants and tigers. Shockingly, 806 of these were due to poaching, highlighting the ongoing threats of illegal hunting and wildlife trafficking despite conservation efforts.
Urgent Call for Action
The growing casualties among humans and animals underline the urgent need for stronger conservation measures. Experts stress the importance of creating and protecting wildlife corridors to minimize human-animal encounters and reduce conflict.
With rising deforestation, climate change, and human encroachment, Odisha faces a mounting challenge in safeguarding both its people and rich wildlife heritage. Coordinated efforts between the government, conservationists, and local communities are crucial to prevent further escalation of this crisis.
