Why Are Elephants Dying in Jharkhand's Kolhan Division?
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Synopsis
The alarming rise in elephant deaths in Jharkhand's Kolhan division raises serious concerns about wildlife safety and human-animal conflict. With four fatalities in 35 days, authorities are investigating the causes behind these tragic events. What measures can be taken to protect these majestic creatures?
Key Takeaways
- Four elephant deaths reported in 35 days in Kolhan, Jharkhand.
- Concerns over wildlife safety and human-animal conflict are rising.
- Electrocution identified as a major cause of these deaths.
- Community awareness and stronger wildlife protection measures are needed.
- 528 elephants died from unnatural causes in India over the last five years.
Ranchi, July 10 (NationPress) Once regarded as a haven for wild elephants, the Kolhan division in Jharkhand has sadly transformed into a graveyard for these majestic beings, with reports indicating four elephant fatalities in a mere 35 days.
These ongoing tragedies have sparked significant alarm regarding wildlife safety and the escalating human-animal conflict in the area.
The most recent case occurred on Thursday in the Serengasia valley of West Singhbhum district, where a wild elephant was found deceased under dubious circumstances. Residents suspect that the animal may have fallen victim to electrocution.
“We received notifications about an elephant carcass found in the valley. Our medical team promptly arrived, and a post-mortem is currently in progress. The precise cause of death will be determined once we have the report,” stated Forest Division Officer Aditya Narayan.
This incident follows the demise of a six-year-old elephant in the Saranda forest on July 5. Known affectionately as 'Gadru' by community members, this pachyderm had suffered injuries from an IED explosion allegedly set by Maoists on June 24. Despite immediate rescue and treatment efforts assisted by the Gujarat-based wildlife NGO Vantara, the elephant unfortunately passed away shortly after.
Another incident on June 24 resulted in the death of a female elephant in Heaven village under the Chandil forest range in Seraikela-Kharsawan district. A post-mortem later confirmed electrocution as the cause. Investigations indicated that a farmer had illegally electrified his field to deter wildlife, leading to the elephant's tragic demise. An FIR has been lodged against the perpetrator, and a manhunt is in progress.
Earlier, on June 5, another elephant was discovered dead in a field near Ambeda, within the same forest division. The cause of its death remains undetermined.
In the past three years, Kolhan has seen the demise of over 15 elephants from various causes. Notably, in November 2023, five elephants were electrocuted in Beniasai village under the Ghatsila subdivision of East Singhbhum. Additionally, in July 2024, a female elephant's body was found abandoned in a field near Bhadua village in the Baharagora block.
In a written response to Parliament this July, the Union Environment Ministry disclosed that 528 elephants had died from unnatural causes across India in the past five years, with 30 of those deaths occurring in Jharkhand due to electrocution alone.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the alarming situation in Jharkhand's Kolhan division. With the increasing number of elephant fatalities, the need for sustainable measures to protect wildlife has never been more urgent. It is imperative that we advocate for stronger wildlife safety protocols and community awareness to mitigate human-animal conflict.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the elephant deaths in Jharkhand's Kolhan division?
The recent elephant deaths have been attributed to electrocution and human-animal conflict, with some incidents involving illegal electrification of fields by farmers.
How many elephants have died in Jharkhand due to unnatural causes?
According to the Union Environment Ministry, 30 elephants have died from unnatural causes in Jharkhand, primarily due to electrocution.
What actions are being taken to investigate the elephant deaths?
Authorities are conducting post-mortems and investigations into each incident, including filing FIRs against individuals responsible for illegal actions leading to elephant fatalities.
