TPSODL Launches ‘Gaja Sanrakshana Project’ to Mitigate Human–Elephant Conflict in Southern Odisha
Berhampur, Odisha: TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited (TPSODL), a joint venture of Tata Power and the Government of Odisha, has launched the ‘Gaja Sanrakshana Project’ to mitigate human–elephant conflict through structured collaboration and preventive infrastructure measures. The pilot initiative is being implemented in the Ghumsur North Forest Division, Bhanjanagar, in partnership with SNEHA NGO. The project aims to reduce elephant electrocution incidents, strengthen community awareness, and enhance coordination between the Forest Department and the power utility. It reinforces TPSODL’s continued commitment to biodiversity conservation and community safety in Southern Odisha.
The project covers four forest ranges under the Ghumsur North Forest Division—Majhagada, Tarasing, Gallery and Jagannathprasad—areas that witness frequent elephant movement and associated risks. Designed as a convergence model, the initiative integrates community participation with technical interventions to prevent accidents and create a responsive safety mechanism in vulnerable pockets.
As part of the initiative, 114 electrocution threat spots have been identified across the four ranges of the division. Targeted corrective measures are being planned and implemented at these vulnerable locations to minimize the risk of accidental contact with live conductors. The initiative also includes sustained awareness campaigns through wall paintings, village-level interactions and street plays, promoting safe practices and encouraging harmonious coexistence with wildlife.
TPSODL has already undertaken several infrastructure-strengthening measures in elephant-prone areas to mitigate such risks. Around 190 kilometres of bare conductors have been replaced with insulated conductors to prevent accidental electrocution, while nearly 1,000 intermediate poles have been erected to improve line stability and reduce sagging of overhead wires in forested corridors.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Amit Kumar Garg, CEO, TPSODL, said, “The Gaja Sanrakshana Project reflects our deep commitment towards biodiversity conservation and community well-being. By working closely with the Forest Department and local communities, we aim to create a sustainable and preventive framework to reduce human–elephant conflict. Together, we can ensure safety for both people and wildlife.”
Mr. Himanshu Sekhar Mohanty, DFO, Ghumsur North Forest Division, said, “This is a very welcome step by TPSODL. With better cooperation between TPSODL and the Forest Department, we will collectively work to fulfil the objectives of this initiative and reduce human–elephant conflicts.”
The launch event was held at the Corporate Office of TPSODL in the presence of Mr. Pradeep Ghoshal – Head CSR, Odisha DISCOMs, Mr. Abhijit Padhi, Circle Head, Bhanjanagar, Mr. Dillip Kumar Sahoo, Head CSR along with senior officials from TPSODL, the Ghumsur North Forest Division and SNEHA NGO.
Through the Gaja Sanrakshana Project, TPSODL strengthens not only power distribution safety but also its role as a responsible corporate committed to protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable coexistence between communities and wildlife in Southern Odisha.
