Sundargarh, Sept. 21 (UDN): A tusker was found dead in Raipuria Reserve Forest under Kel Beat of the Mazuradima Section in Jarda Range of Sundargarh district on Sunday, prompting the Forest Department to initiate an inquiry into the incident.

The elephant’s carcass was spotted by local residents, who subsequently informed forest officials about the death.

According to preliminary information, the tusker had reportedly been unwell for the past few days. Forest personnel had been monitoring its movements and keeping track of its condition before the animal was found dead.

Following the alert, the Jarda Ranger and other forest staff reached the site and informed senior officials about the incident.

The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) and Jarda Ranger later visited the reserve forest to inspect the spot and assess the circumstances surrounding the elephant’s death.

The Forest Department has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of death. Officials are examining the circumstances and other relevant factors as part of the ongoing probe.

The cause of the tusker’s death has not yet been established, and further details are awaited from the Forest Department following completion of the inquiry.