Environment Minister Seeks Detailed Report on Elephant Deaths, Directs Authorities to take Steps for Conservation of Elephants

Environment Minister Seeks Detailed Report on Elephant Deaths, Directs Authorities to take Steps for Conservation of Elephants

The Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Anil Madhav Dave, has sought a detailed report on the train accident in Bishnupur area of West Bengal yesterday, in which three elephants were killed. Shri Dave has asked all concerned local authorities to ascertain the exact reasons behind the train accident. The Environment Minister has also directed State Forest Department officials to discuss the issue with Railways authorities and put in place appropriate measures for the conservation of elephants.

The Environment Ministry has initiated steps to prepare a Regional Landscape Plan for the conservation of elephants in the East Central Elephant Landscape, comprising the states of West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand and other elephant areas.

The West Bengal Forest Department has also prepared a three-year action plan for controlling human-elephant conflict in South Bengal. The State Forest Department will send SMS alerts to Railway authorities on the movement of elephants near railway tracks to prevent accidents. State Forest Department officials will also hold a meeting with Railway authorities today, following yesterdays train accident in Bishnpur area of West Bengal.