Odisha’s Wildlife Losses in 8 Years: Elephants, Leopards, Tigers:
Between 2015-16 and September 25, 2023, Odisha witnessed the loss of 698 elephants, 48 leopards, and seven Royal Bengal tigers, as disclosed by the state’s forest and environment minister, Pradip Kumar Amat, in the Odisha Legislative Assembly on Tuesday.
In response to a written inquiry from Biju Janata Dal member Prafulla Samal, Minister Amat clarified that these animals perished due to various factors, including diseases, electrocution, train and road accidents, poaching, and poisoning. MLA Samal also sought information on measures taken to reduce animal deaths.
The minister explained that efforts had been made to reinforce their natural habitats, plant a substantial number of elephant fodder plants, develop grazing areas, and create artificial ponds. Additionally, steps have been taken to combat wildfires and poaching.
Congress MLA Taraprasad Bahinipati inquired about the number of human casualties resulting from man-elephant conflicts. Minister Amat stated that a total of 602 people had lost their lives in elephant attacks over the past five years. During the same period, elephants killed 127 domestic animals and caused damage to 611 houses.
