An elephant sustained severe injuries in Mayurbhanj district’s Betanati Range, and the incident immediately sparked concern among locals and forest officials.
Firstly, the elephant belonged to a herd of 27 that crossed the Budhabalanga River into Nilgiri. Afterwards, the herd returned to Betanati, but one female elephant reappeared on Friday morning with deep wounds on its mouth and tongue. Witnesses observed the elephant bleeding and struggling to drink water because of the injuries.
Moreover, locals suspected that the elephant might have consumed explosive materials or sharp weapons, which caused the severe trauma. The distressed elephant ran frantically across the area, and villagers quickly alerted the Forest Department.
Subsequently, a special team from the Betanati Range and Chuapada forest reached the spot. Although the team faced difficulties in tranquilising the elephant due to its erratic movements, they eventually succeeded.
Then, using a JCB machine, officials loaded the elephant onto a truck and shifted it to the Bangiriposhi Talabandh Rehabilitation Centre for advanced treatment. Forest staff confirmed that the elephant’s jaw and tongue were critically injured.
Finally, local eyewitnesses claimed the elephant might have ingested explosives. However, officials clarified that the exact cause remains under investigation. The Forest Department stated that the inquiry is ongoing and the precise reason for the injuries has not yet been established.
