By Our Correspondent
BARGARH: Under the jurisdiction of the Ghens Range, the Kalidunguri forest welcomed a new guest. Late last night, a mother elephant gave birth, bringing joy and excitement to the forest staff and local wildlife enthusiasts. The Forest Department is closely monitoring the health of both the mother and the newborn.
Arrival of the Herd
On October 25, a group of 28 elephants entered Odisha from the forests of Chhattisgarh. This herd traveled through Victoria Sagar, Sukal Terma, Sanimal, Salepali, Tal, and Palashapali before settling in the Kalidunguri jungle. With the addition of the newborn, the total number of elephants in the herd now stands at 29.
Active Monitoring
The Forest Department, under the leadership of Bargarh DFO Bikramdev Patnaik, has formed a dedicated five-member team headed by Bijayalakshmi Patel from Ghens Range. Additionally, a team from Tata Power has joined the efforts. They are actively monitoring the movement and activities of the elephants to ensure their safety and that of the locals.
Unique Composition of the Herd
The herd comprises three tuskers, four three-year-old calves, and 21 female and juvenile elephants. Among them is a dominant tusker from Chhattisgarh, nicknamed Babulu, known for its protective nature toward the group.
Preventive Measures
To prevent accidents, Tata Power has been instructed to cut off power lines immediately when the herd begins moving. Local villagers are being sensitized through public announcements, advising them to avoid disturbing or taking selfies with the elephants. The Forest Department has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against any activities that may harm the animals or provoke them.
Crop Damage Assessment
The elephants have caused significant damage to paddy crops in nearby villages. The Forest Department has directed the Ghens Range officials to promptly assess the damage and submit a report for compensation.
Community Involvement
Villagers are actively cooperating with the authorities, ensuring the safety of both the elephants and themselves. The collaborative efforts of the Forest Department and Tata Power aim to manage the situation smoothly while promoting coexistence. The arrival of a new member in the herd is a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife. The Forest Department remains vigilant, ensuring the peaceful coexistence of both communities in this unique environment.
