In a bold move to curb the growing danger of illegal explosives hidden in animal bait, Odisha’s law enforcement and conservation agencies have launched a coordinated crackdown.
Chaired by Inspector General of Police (IGP) for Central Range, Cuttack, Dr. Satyajit Naik, a high-level video conference meeting today brought together key officials to tackle the issue head-on in the sensitive areas of Athgarh, Badamba, and Narasinghpur.
The meeting highlighted the severe threat posed by “bait bombs”—crude explosive devices disguised in food to target wildlife. These not only devastate conservation efforts but also endanger livestock and human lives in nearby communities. Participants included Superintendents of Police from Central Range Districts, the RCCF-cum-Field Director of Satkosia Tiger Reserve, and Divisional Forest Officers from Athgarh and Cuttack Divisions.
Under Dr. Naik’s directive, the Odisha Police and Satkosia Tiger Reserve authorities will merge their operations, adopting a “zero-tolerance” stance against the production and use of these illegal devices. This unified approach emphasizes inter-agency collaboration to protect biodiversity and fringe communities.
The strategy focuses on joint intelligence sharing to uncover poaching networks and explosive manufacturing sites. Coordinated raids and stringent enforcement under the Wildlife Protection Act and Explosives Act will follow, ensuring swift justice for violators.
The initiative aims to secure the Satkosia corridor, a vital habitat for wildlife, by combining police tactical skills with the Forest Department’s on-ground expertise. Dr. Naik stressed the goal of permanently deterring such crimes, creating a safer environment for all.
He called on the public to report suspicious activities to local police or forest offices, underscoring that community involvement is key to eradicating these hazardous practices and preserving Odisha’s natural heritage.
