Sundergarh, Jul 11: Tragedy continues to unfold in Jharkhand’s Saranda forest as another elephant injured in a suspected landmine blast has succumbed to injuries.

According to reports, the incident, believed to be caused by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) allegedly planted by Maoist insurgents, has already claimed the life of a calf earlier this week.

On the other hand, forest officials have confirmed that two other elephants injured in the same blast remain untraced.

The blast occurred near the Odisha-Jharkhand border, an area known for frequent insurgent activity and dense elephant habitats.

The deceased elephant had been receiving medical care after being located with severe injuries. Despite efforts by forest departments and wildlife rescue teams—including specialists from Gujarat-based Vantara—the animal could not be saved.

This marks the second confirmed elephant fatality from the incident, with fears mounting that the remaining injured elephants may also be in critical condition.

Wildlife experts have called for urgent surveillance and demining operations in the Saranda forest, which has become increasingly hazardous for both animals and humans due to hidden explosives.

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