Odisha Forest Department Demands Performance Report Amid Rising Elephant Fatalities

Bhubaneswar – In response to the alarming rise in elephant deaths across Odisha, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) has called for an urgent performance report from wildlife protection squads deployed throughout the state. The move comes after over 40 elephant fatalities were reported in the current fiscal year, raising concerns about the effectiveness of conservation efforts.

In a letter addressed to all Regional Chief Conservators of Forests, the PCCF highlighted that 397 squads are currently stationed across various divisions to safeguard wildlife. Despite the significant manpower at the disposal of Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs), the letter revealed a lack of action and oversight, with no performance reviews or reports submitted to the PCCF’s office.

The letter pointed out deficiencies in leadership and the absence of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for tracking elephants and conducting wildlife protection activities. This has led to inadequate patrolling and habitat protection, further contributing to the growing number of elephant deaths.

In an attempt to rectify the situation, the Wildlife Wing has begun reallocating squads from different programs and schemes to divisions in need of enhanced field patrolling. The PCCF’s letter emphasized that squad members who demonstrate effective performance will remain in place, provided they meet field requirements and are sourced from outsourced agencies.

Regional Chief Conservators of Forests (CCFs) have also been instructed to mobilize squads from neighboring divisions, depending on local conditions, to ensure the protection of wildlife. The reallocation of these squads and their subsequent field assignments must be communicated promptly to the PCCF’s office to facilitate the necessary funds for operations.