Angul: An elephant was found in a critical condition after it reportedly chewed a crude bomb in Bantala area of Odisha’s Angul district on Thursday.
The incident took place near Patharagada Sahi of Balukata village under the Bantala Range of Angul Forest Division.
After getting information from locals, Forest department officials have started treatment of the injured male elephant, stated to be around six to seven years old.
Veterinarians said that the elephant is suspected to have accidentally chewed a crude bomb kept illegally in the forest apparently for hunting wild animals.
The incident was believed to have occurred around five to six days ago. The explosion caused deep wounds inside the elephant’s mouth. The animal is in severe pain and unable to eat properly.
Teams from Kapilash, Angul and Satkosia have reached the spot and started treatment of the elephant. Efforts are underway to stabilise the animal and prevent infection.
