In Thakurmunda, the lifeless body of a female elephant was discovered in the Benuadar jungle, located within the Satkosia forest range of the Karanjia division in Mayurbhanj district on Monday.

The cause of death for the elephant, estimated to be between 15 to 20 years old, remains unclear. Forest officials suspect that the animal may have succumbed to an illness before any medical intervention could be administered. A post-mortem examination is scheduled for Tuesday to determine the exact cause.

According to reports, local residents observed the elephant standing still and unable to move in the Benuadar Sahi rural area, specifically in compartment no-19 near the Bhaliadal panchayat, prompting them to alert the Forest officials.

Upon receiving the notification, a team of Forest officials and veterinarians, led by ranger Rabindranath Mohanta, prepared to head to the location. Unfortunately, they arrived only to find the elephant had already passed away.