BILASPUR, CHHATTISGARH (India CSR): The Chhattisgarh High Court has taken a firm stance on recent incidents of elephants dying due to electric shocks in the state. The court has taken cognizance of the deaths reported in the Ghargoda forest area of Raigarh district and the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, launching a public interest hearing on the matter. The division bench, led by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice BD Guru, is treating this as a public interest litigation.
Notice to Energy Department and Electricity Distribution Company
The High Court has issued a notice to the Secretary of the State Energy Department and the Managing Director of the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Distribution Company, directing them to submit an affidavit. The court has asked them to clarify what preventive measures have been implemented to avoid such incidents. The next hearing for the case is scheduled for November 20.
Recent Deaths in Dharamjaigarh
Recently, three elephants in the Dharamjaigarh area lost their lives after coming into contact with live wires. Soon after, the carcass of an elephant calf was discovered in the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, with reports indicating death due to electric shock. Following media reports, the High Court has initiated a public interest hearing to address these incidents seriously.
Intervention Petition by Wildlife Enthusiast
Raipur-based wildlife enthusiast Nitin Singhvi has filed an intervention petition in the public interest case. His petition noted an incident in Bilaspur Forest Division on November 1, where an elephant calf reportedly died due to electric shock. Additionally, he highlighted a tragic event in Kanker on October 9, where three bears died after coming into contact with a fallen power line.
Other Incidents Due to Poaching Traps
The petition also reported incidents where illegal electric traps for poaching caused fatalities. On October 15 in Korba, two people lost their lives due to such traps, while another person died on October 21 in the Basantpur forest of Ambikapur under similar circumstances. Acknowledging these events, the court has directed the concerned parties to submit affidavits.
Court’s Firm Stand on Safety
The High Court has emphasized the need for state authorities to prioritize the safety of wildlife and local residents. The court made it clear that there is an urgent need to improve the power line infrastructure in forest areas and strictly enforce safety standards.
