Investigation Launched Following Ten Elephant Deaths in Madhya Pradesh's Bandhavgarh Reserve

In Madhya Pradesh's Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, the sudden death of 10 elephants over three days has prompted an investigation. Samples from the deceased elephants are being sent to the ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute in Uttar Pradesh and a forensic lab in Sagar. This step aims to uncover the cause of these deaths, which occurred between Tuesday and Thursday this week.

On Tuesday, four elephants were discovered dead in the Sankhani and Bakeli areas within the Khitoli range. The following day, another four elephants died, with two more succumbing on Thursday. Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Wildlife L Krishnamoorthy confirmed that samples, including viscera, liver, and kidney tissues, are being dispatched for analysis. He leads a five-member committee appointed by the state government to investigate these deaths.

Investigation into Elephant Deaths

The committee is examining whether the elephants consumed toxic substances, such as pesticides used in nearby fields. "Only after the reports come in can we arrive at a conclusion on the cause of death," stated MP Principal Chief Conservator of Forest PCCF-Wildlife VKN Ambade. Initial post-mortem reports suggest that Kodo millets might be involved.

A senior veterinarian involved in the investigation mentioned that staff observed the elephants collapsing and shivering before dying. A ground duty officer noted that six farmers have been identified whose fields contained Kodo millets eaten by the elephants. The investigation will determine if pesticides were applied to these crops.

Expert Consultations and Ongoing Investigations

Veterinarians suspect mycotoxins linked to Kodo millets might be responsible for the deaths. Mycotoxins produce cyclopiazonic acid, which can be poisonous. Wildlife veterinarians are consulting experts from various institutes, including IVRI Bareilly and Wildlife Institute of India Dehradun, to gather more information on these toxins.

The Delhi-based Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is also probing the incident. Meanwhile, Nandkishore Kale from the National Tiger Conservation Authority continues his investigations at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. The state tiger strike force has visited nearby agricultural lands and water bodies as part of their inquiry.

Monitoring Remaining Elephants

The deceased elephants were part of a herd of 13, with one male among them. The remaining three elephants are reportedly healthy and are under close observation by officials. The Krishnamoorthy-led panel has been tasked with submitting their findings within 10 days.

This tragic event might be unprecedented in India, with wildlife experts noting it could be the first instance where 10 elephants have died within such a short period. The Special Investigation Team and task force are exploring all possible angles to determine what led to this unfortunate occurrence.