Madhya Pradesh to Deploy Satellite Collars to Track Wild Elephants After Bandhavgarh Deaths

BHOPAL: Following the recent deaths of 10 elephants in the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (BTR), the Madhya Pradesh forest department has decided to deploy satellite collars to monitor the movements of wild elephants. Officials confirmed this new initiative on Friday, aiming to enhance conservation efforts for the state's elephant population.

The decision follows the discovery of multiple elephant fatalities in the Khalil range of BTR in Umaria district. Four elephants were found dead on October 29 in the Sankhani and Bakeli areas, with additional deaths occurring on October 30 and 31.

In response to these incidents, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced that forest officials from Madhya Pradesh would receive specialized training in states where elephants are more abundant. The goal is to improve monitoring and management practices for elephant conservation.

According to an official from the forest department, Tamil Nadu has been approached to provide two satellite collars, which are expected to arrive in Madhya Pradesh this week. These collars will initially be used on two elephants in Bandhavgarh, with the eventual plan to collar all 150 wild elephants across the state.

The initiative is part of the recent efforts by the newly established Elephant Advisory Committee, led by the additional principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), L. Krishnamoorthy. This nine-member committee, formed to manage elephant conservation, primarily focuses on the rescue and rehabilitation of wild elephants.

An investigation into the deaths found the presence of neurotoxin cyclopiazonic acid in the elephants' bodies, ruling out deliberate poisoning. The toxic substance was linked to the elephants' consumption of large amounts of Kodo millet plants, as reported by officials.

Following the probe, the chief minister suspended two senior reserve officials for alleged lapses in conservation measures, emphasizing the state’s commitment to wildlife safety and accountability.

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