Rising Unnatural Elephant Deaths in Odisha: A Preventable Crisis
Odisha has reported 176 unnatural elephant deaths from 2015-2024, with electrocution being the leading cause. The state’s death rate significantly exceeds that of Assam, raising concerns over inadequate safety measures. Tata Power is taking steps to mitigate risks, yet conservationists call for more accountability and effective implementation of recommendations to protect elephants.
Odisha has been deemed India’s elephant graveyard, according to reports from the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change. Between 2015-16 and 2023-24, the state recorded 176 unnatural elephant deaths, primarily due to train accidents, electrocution, poaching, and poisoning. This figure marks Odisha as the second highest for unnatural deaths in India, trailing Assam’s tally of 200.
The analysis reveals that the unnatural death rate for elephants in Odisha stands at 8.3%, significantly surpassing Assam’s 3.4%. While Assam boasts a wild elephant population of 5,828, Odisha has only 2,098, resulting in a disproportionate impact of deaths relative to the population. Other states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala reported much lower numbers and rates of elephant fatalities.
Electrocution is identified as the leading cause of these unnatural deaths. Of the 176 recorded, 124 fatalities were due to electrocution linked to live wire poaching traps, poorly maintained power lines, and electrified fences. Notably, recent incidents illustrate this trend, including the tragic death of a 15-year-old tusker electrocuted by an illegal solar fence in March 2024.
In response, Tata Power has initiated several measures, including raising the height of electric poles in areas prone to elephant interactions, installing insulated cables, and a 24/7 Elephant Care Control Room aimed at monitoring movements and coordinating power shutdowns during crossings. They claim these steps have prevented numerous incidents and enhanced safety.
Wildlife conservationist Biswajit Mohanty expressed concerns over 2024-25 as a particularly tragic year, with 31 unnatural elephant deaths. He emphasized the preventable nature of these deaths and criticized power distribution companies for inadequate infrastructure maintenance. Despite a 2010 inquiry suggesting safety measures, the implementation has been lacking.
Additionally, there were discrepancies with poaching numbers, where Mohanty suggested the actual fatalities may be higher than reported, citing historical concealment of carcasses as evidence of mismanagement. State officials have acknowledged the electrocution issue and are leveraging technology, including AI cameras, for monitoring while addressing safety measures in collaboration with the energy department.
The article highlights the alarming rise in unnatural elephant deaths in Odisha, mainly attributed to electrocution, train accidents, and poaching. The significant discrepancies between elephant populations and death rates draw attention to the need for better preventive measures. Despite efforts from organizations like Tata Power, further regulatory enforcement and infrastructural improvements are essential to protect Odisha’s elephants. Stronger accountability and monitoring will be needed to ensure these majestic animals receive the care and safety they deserve, ultimately addressing the overarching challenge of human-elephant conflict.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
