Bhubaneswar: Amid the severe flood situation in Ganjam and other parts of South Odisha, reports of the endangered blackbucks (Krushnasara Mruga) being swept away by strong currents have caused concern among wildlife lovers. However, forest officials have clarified that all the animals involved in the incident are safe.

According to reports circulating on social media and other platforms, some blackbucks were seen being carried away by the strong currents of floodwaters. While a few animals were indeed swept along by the powerful water currents, they managed to cross the river safely and reach the nearby forest areas, said the state government in a statement on Friday.

According to reports submitted by the respective Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs), no blackbuck deaths have been reported in connection with the incident.

The officials of the Forest Department have confirmed that all the animals are safe, dispelling fears triggered by reports of possible wildlife casualties during the floods.

The clarification comes as Ganjam and other districts of South Odisha continue to face a severe flood situation in the wake of heavy rain caused by the cyclonic storm ‘Arnab’ that made landfall near Yanam in Andhra Pradesh on October 28.