Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Wednesday said the rising incidences of death of elephants over the years in Odisha are a matter of “serious concern”.
In a tweet, Pradhan said that according to media reports, as many as 947 elephants have perished in the State during the last 12 years due to poaching and electricity shock.
He said the State Government should take adequate steps without further delay to protect the elephants. The Government must also take strong action against the hunters of wild animals.
Responding to Pradhan’s tweet, Union Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav expressed concern over the elephants’ death and has asked the State Government to take prompt action against poachers.
His Ministry also sought a detailed report on Athagarh elephant deaths from the State Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Wildlife) and directed for immediate action under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
