Byrnihat, Assam-Meghalaya, April 15 (HBTV): A wild elephant was found dead, suspected to have been electrocuted by a high-voltage electric wire in the forest areas of 14 Mer in Byrnihat of Ri Bhoi district in Meghalaya.

Officials from the Wildlife Department, led by Range Forest Officer Bah Leening Wahlang, visited the site and discovered the carcass of the elephant. Preliminary investigations suggest that the elephant may have come into contact with a powerful electric wire that hangs just about seven feet above the ground.

The presence of a high-voltage power line poses a significant danger not only to wildlife but also to local residents who frequent the forest for various purposes. The Wildlife Department has initiated an inquiry into the cause of death and is currently awaiting further instructions on whether the elephant’s remains would be cremated or buried.

RFO Wahlang has appealed to the authorities to take immediate action regarding the hazardous electric wire to prevent future harm to both animals and humans.