A young wild elephant was left grievously injured after coming in contact with an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) allegedly planted by Naxalites in the dense forests of Saranda. The incident is believed to have occurred sometime between June 24 and June 26, highlighting both the ongoing threat posed by insurgents and the collateral damage inflicted on wildlife inhabiting the region.   According to forest officials, the injured elephant, estimated to be about six years old, sustained a severe wound to its left hind leg, which has become badly swollen. On June 27, the animal was last spotted near Digha in Saranda, where it was seen attempting to ease its pain by spraying water on the injury.   Following reports of the incident, an intensive search and rescue operation was launched. Six specialized teams from the Forest Department—including personnel from Samta, Sasangada, Gua, Koyna, Anandpur forest range in Jharkhand, and the Bisra forest range in Odisha—have been deployed to locate and assist the elephant. A veterinary team from Odisha has also joined the efforts, carrying necessary medical supplies and tranquilizers to help treat the animal once it is safely tracked.   Shankar Bhagat, Forest Area Officer of Samta, confirmed that the department is working continuously to trace the elephant. Information has been received about the elephant being injured, and the forest department teams are engaged in finding it so that treatment can be provided without further delay, he said.   Sarandas dense forests, which span the border regions of Jharkhand and Odisha, have long been a hotspot of Naxalite activity. The presence of hidden explosives not only poses a grave threat to security forces but also endangers local wildlife moving through the area. Conservationists have expressed deep concern over such incidents, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to clear the forests of explosive devices to prevent further harm to animals.   Officials have appealed to villagers and forest dwellers to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the injured elephant or suspicious objects in the area. The rescue teams are hopeful that with combined efforts and timely intervention, the elephant can be safely treated and eventually released back into its natural habitat.

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