Odisha news: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), March 11: Residents of Bhubaneswar were gripped by fear on Tuesday after a wild tusker was spotted roaming near the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar.
The elephant, which had reportedly entered the city from the Barunei hills near Khurda, was seen stuck in a cashew orchard near the medical institute since Monday night.
Upon receiving information, forest department officials rushed to the spot and launched efforts to guide the elephant back into the Chandaka Sanctuary. Officials have urged the public to remain calm and avoid venturing close to the animal to prevent any untoward incidents. Loudspeakers and public announcements are being used to inform people about the tusker’s movements and safety precautions.
Forest department personnel, numbering around 30, have been deployed to monitor the situation closely. According to officials, the elephant is expected to retrace its path back to the forest by evening. The authorities assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure both public safety and the safe return of the elephant to its natural habitat.
