Chandaka makhna elephant strays into Pathargadia triggering panic

Bhubaneswar: A makhna elephant dispersed from Chandaka wildlife sanctuary and strayed into Pathargadia area on the outskirts of the city triggering panic on Monday.

Chandaka authorities said the elephant is not aggressive and has not attacked anybody. Earlier, the same elephant came close to human habitation but returned on its own with forest personnel monitoring its movement. “Since it is a makhna elephant, it mostly remains isolated and doesn’t mingle with any herd. It is well built but has no history of aggressive behaviour. However, we are monitoring its activities,” said DFO (Chandaka) Binod Acharya.

This makhna was also seen earlier around Sikharchandi area, a popular hangout and tourist zone in the city. “Usually, tuskers keep coming to Sikharchandi area and during those times, the makhna elephant avoids coming towards the city. But it has come alone several times,” Acharya added.

Forest department officials said in April two errant tuskers dispersed from Chandaka drawn by mangoes growing in the orchards near the sanctuary. Forest officials said in summer tourist activities dip and that’s why there is no apprehension of conflict with humans as visitors’ presence is almost nil near Chandaka.

In Feb, an errant wild tusker that wreaked havoc on human habitation in the city was tranquillised. Tourism was suspended near Sikharchandi for two days in Dec due to the presence of elephants.