Raipur:
A six-month-old elephant calf was found dead in the Ghoghara dam at Singhizhap under the Chhal range of Dharamjaygarh forest division, triggering concern among forest officials and prompting an investigation into the incident.
According to the Forest Department, a herd of nearly 20 elephants had moved from the Bojia forest complex towards Singhizhap on May 7. While returning late at night, the herd entered the waters of the Ghoghara dam, where the calf is suspected to have drowned. Most of the elephants later moved towards the Lotan area, while a few stayed near the dam for some time.
The carcass was discovered by elephant trackers during a routine patrol on May 8, after which senior forest officials were immediately informed.
Considering the seriousness of the incident, a three-member team of specialist veterinarians — Dr Ashish Rathiya, Dr Vivek Nayak, and Dr Anil Kumar Singh — was rushed to the spot. A post-mortem examination was conducted in the presence of the veterinary experts.
Officials said viscera samples have been sent to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, and the Wildlife Forensic and Health Department of Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, to determine the exact cause of death.
The Forest Department has initiated statutory proceedings in the matter and intensified monitoring of elephant movement in the region.
