Vantara Team: Ranchi, Jharkhand: A wild elephant has been critically injured in Saranda forests of Chaibasa, reportedly due to an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast, allegedly planted by Maoists. Forest officials reported that the explosion caused severe damage to the elephant’s front right foot, leaving its toes blown off and exposing deep tissue.
Severe Injuries Observed
Saranda Divisional Forest Officer, Aviroop Sinha, explained that the wound appeared fresh and similar to injuries seen in three other elephants affected by earlier IED blasts. “We were informed about the incident around midnight. Immediate medical intervention has been initiated,” Sinha stated.
The injured elephant was first seen in the Ankua section of Saranda, a densely forested area that has been challenging for rescue operations. Forest and police personnel quickly reached the location to secure the site and provide initial care.
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Vantara Team Joins Emergency Response
To ensure specialized care, the Vantara team has been called to assist. Known for handling wildlife emergencies, the team will collaborate with forest veterinarians to stabilize and treat the injured elephant. Additional veterinary squads from nearby blocks have also been mobilized to provide continuous medical support.
Cause of Injury Under Investigation
Although the wound strongly suggests an IED blast, authorities are still confirming the exact cause. “No recent Maoist activity has been reported in the Ankua area, so it is possible that the elephant was injured elsewhere and wandered into this region,” Sinha noted.
The incident has raised concerns about leftover explosive devices in forest corridors, posing threats to wildlife as well as local communities.
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Intensive Veterinary Care Underway
Veterinarian Dr. Sanjay Kumar, who is treating the elephant, confirmed that the animal has received antibiotics, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory treatment. “The injury is extensive, likely from a large explosion. Our team is planning to move her to a safer location where she can get continuous care,” he said.
The elephant, a female aged around 10–12 years, is currently unable to walk due to the severe injuries. “Forest staff are constantly monitoring her, ensuring that she gets round-the-clock attention to aid recovery,” Dr. Kumar added.
Fourth Elephant Affected by IEDs in Saranda
This incident marks the fourth case of an elephant being injured by IEDs in the Saranda region. Previously, two elephants died during treatment while one was found dead in the forest. Wildlife officials are alarmed by the repeated risk to elephants caused by hidden explosive devices.
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Authorities on High Alert
The forest department and police have intensified patrolling in the region to detect and remove any remaining explosive hazards. Wildlife experts emphasize the importance of rapid intervention by specialized rescue teams like the Vantara team for timely treatment.
A Call for Safer Forest Zones
Experts urge better coordination between security forces and wildlife departments to protect elephants and other animals from man-made threats. Saranda, known for its natural beauty, is now facing challenges due to lingering explosives, highlighting the dangers posed to wildlife in conflict zones.
The combined efforts of forest personnel, veterinarians, and the Vantara team aim to give the injured elephant a chance to recover and return safely to the wild.
