Elephant Rescue in Angul Stalled as Herd Turns Aggressive

Angul, April 26: A dramatic rescue operation unfolded in Chhendipada forest range, Angul district, after an elephant fell into an open well while a herd of 20–25 elephants entered the area from Deogarh in search of food.

Forest officials, alerted by villagers, rushed to the spot with two JCB machines to widen the well and prepare for lifting the trapped elephant.

However, the rescue attempt was stalled when the rest of the herd turned aggressive, charging at the rescue team and forcing officials to withdraw for safety.

Authorities are now working to drive the herd away before resuming the rescue.

Officials have urged locals to stay clear of the site, citing the serious threat posed by the elephants’ behaviour.

The incident highlights the growing human–elephant conflict in Odisha, where herds frequently enter villages in search of food and water, leading to dangerous encounters.