Centre Probes Mysterious Death of 10 Elephants in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve

File photo: Credit: PTI Photo

A devastating incident has unfolded at Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, where 10 elephants mysteriously died over three days starting October 29. Preliminary investigations hint at poisoning from Kodo millet crops.

The crisis began when a beat guard discovered distressed elephants near their camp. Despite swift veterinary intervention, the death toll escalated, with four elephants found dead on October 29, followed by additional fatalities each day, culminating in 10 deaths by October 31.

Authorities suspect toxic Kodo crops as the primary cause and are conducting a thorough probe. The State Tiger Strike Force, assisted by a dog squad, is investigating the incident. Examinations of water sources, local crops, and movement patterns within a five-kilometer radius are underway.

The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and a five-member state government committee are conducting independent investigations. The committee, headed by APCCF (Wildlife), includes experts from civil society, science, and veterinary fields.

Veterinary experts conducted thorough post-mortem examinations, sending samples to specialized labs for toxicological and histopathological analysis.

A high-level committee, led by the APCCF (Wildlife), has been formed to unravel the truth. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and National Tiger Conservation Authority are conducting parallel investigations.

The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden oversees the probe, while intensified monitoring ensures the safety of remaining elephant herds.

As the investigation continues, concerns grow about the reserve’s wildlife security. The cause of death will be confirmed once lab results are in, guiding future conservation strategies.

This heartbreaking incident highlights the pressing need for robust wildlife protection measures to preserve India’s natural treasures.