10 November 2026 | Dukura Forest Range, Mayurbhanj, Odisha
A wild tusker was found dead in the Baripada Forest Division of Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district on Monday, November 9, raising fresh concerns over the use of illegal electric fencing in agricultural areas adjoining forests.
The elephant’s carcass was recovered from a pond at Karamaghatu under the Dukura forest section, according to OMMCOM News. Forest officials reached the location after receiving information and initiated an investigation.
Electrocution Suspected
Although the exact cause of death has not been established, reports from the area indicate that electrical wires were found near the site.
Officials suspect that the elephant may have come into contact with a live wire, possibly installed to protect agricultural crops from wild animals.
The Baripada Divisional Forest Officer, Gobinda Chandra Biswal, said the cause of death would be established following a post-mortem examination and scientific analysis of samples.
The examination is expected to help determine whether electrocution was responsible.
Illegal Electric Fencing: A Recurring Threat
Illegal electric fencing is a serious threat to elephants in Odisha. Farmers sometimes use live wires connected directly to electricity supplies to prevent elephants and wild boars from entering fields.
Such installations can become deadly traps for wildlife moving between forests, water sources and agricultural land.
Mayurbhanj has witnessed similar incidents in the past, with elephant deaths reported in areas including Baisinga, Rasgovindpur and Bangiriposi.
Preventing Further Wildlife Deaths
The latest incident highlights the need for coordinated action by the Forest Department and electricity authorities.
Regular inspections of agricultural fields near forests, removal of unauthorised electrical connections, wildlife-safe crop-protection measures and timely compensation for crop damage are essential.
Farmers also need practical alternatives to dangerous electric fencing so that protecting crops does not result in the loss of protected wildlife.
The death of another tusker is a reminder that elephant conservation cannot be limited to protecting forest habitats. The safety of elephants in the surrounding agricultural landscape is equally important.
Source: OMMCOM News (9 November 2026); Sambad English; OrissaPOST; OdishaBytes.
Last Updated: 10 November 2026
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