Bhubaneswar, Feb 10: In a tragic wildlife incident, three women were trampled to death and three others sustained serious injuries after a wild elephant attacked them in Lochapali village under the Patpuri Forest in Sadar range of Dhenkanal district on Tuesday.

The deceased have been identified as Indu Pradhan, Tuni Behera, and Kuntala Pradhan. The injured—Rama Dehuri, Rasmita Pradhan, and Jhili Pradhan—were rescued and admitted to the District Headquarters Hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment. Hospital sources said their condition remains critical.

According to reports, the six women had entered the forest around 10 a.m. to collect firewood when they suddenly came face to face with the elephant. Before they could escape, the animal charged at them, killing three on the spot and grievously injuring the others.

Forest department officials rushed to the scene soon after receiving information and launched an inquiry into the incident.

Dhenkanal Range Officer Uchhaba Chandra Pradhan said patrolling was underway, but the attack occurred when the women accidentally encountered the elephant deep inside the forest area.

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