Forest officials monitor injured elephant’s movement
The incident occurred near Jammunereddypalli in Bodabandla panchayat of Bangarupalem mandal last Wednesday, where country-made bombs allegedly planted to hunt wild boars were triggered. One of the devices exploded, killing a dog instantly and causing a minor leg injury to the elephant.
TIRUPATI: The forest department in Chittoor district has confirmed that an elephant injured in a crude bomb explosion last week is recovering and remains active within its herd. The latest tracking data indicates that the herd is moving towards the Palamaner forest region, with officials closely monitoring the injured animal’s condition.
The incident occurred near Jammunereddypalli in Bodabandla panchayat of Bangarupalem mandal last Wednesday, where country-made bombs allegedly planted to hunt wild boars were triggered. One of the devices exploded, killing a dog instantly and causing a minor leg injury to the elephant.
District forest officer (DFO) S. Bharani stated that while the injury was visible through blood traces found along forest paths, it does not appear to be serious. “The elephant is showing normal movement and remains with its group of 14. Based on field observations and lab reports, the injury is superficial and is expected to heal naturally,” she said.
Following the explosion, forest personnel from the Bodabandla, Racheru, and Ragimanupenta beats conducted combing operations in the surrounding areas. A small bone fragment recovered from the blast site has been sent for forensic analysis to determine the exact impact on the animal.
Out of six crude explosive devices believed to have been planted in the area, two detonated — one injuring the elephant and another killing the dog — while four unexploded bombs were recovered and seized. Eleven individuals from nearby villages have been identified and are currently under interrogation in connection with the illegal hunting traps.
Although forest teams have made repeated attempts, the injured elephant could not be separated from the group for treatment. Due to the elephant’s continuous movement with the herd, officials have ruled out tranquillisation or direct medical intervention. “Attempting to isolate the animal could disturb the herd and pose additional risks. Instead, we are tracking the group’s movement and health indicators,” Bharani added.
