Tragic Loss of Blackbucks at Karnataka Zoo
A devastating bacterial outbreak has claimed the lives of thirty-one blackbucks at the Kittur Rani Chennamma Zoo in Belagavi, Karnataka, within just four days, prompting immediate government intervention and a high-level investigation.
Timeline of the Tragedy
The tragic sequence of events unfolded rapidly, with eight antelopes succumbing to the infection on Thursday, followed by a staggering twenty more deaths on Saturday. Three additional blackbucks died over the subsequent two days, bringing the total death toll to thirty-one.
This catastrophic event has drastically reduced the zoo's blackbuck population to just seven surviving animals, raising serious concerns about wildlife management and disease control in captivity.
Government Response and Investigation
Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre expressed profound sorrow over the incident, stating he felt "deep pain" upon learning about the mass deaths. The minister personally visited Belagavi on November 17 to assess the situation and conduct emergency meetings with zoo officials.
Minister Khandre has ordered a comprehensive, high-level probe to determine the origin and transmission patterns of the bacterial infection. "Prima facie, it is found that these blackbucks died due to bacterial infection. Our officers and veterinary doctors are giving treatment to them," Khandre confirmed to reporters.
The state government has mobilized experts from Bannerghatta Biological Park in Bengaluru to assist with the investigation and treatment efforts. Officials are also consulting with additional specialists in the field to contain the outbreak.
Preventive Measures and Future Safeguards
Authorities are implementing all necessary precautionary measures to ensure the infection doesn't spread to other zoos or wildlife facilities. Minister Khandre has issued strict directives to protect the remaining blackbucks and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Drawing a parallel to the unpredictability of disease outbreaks, the minister compared the situation to "COVID-19 among blackbucks," emphasizing that such occurrences can be difficult to anticipate despite best efforts in wildlife conservation.
The investigation aims to establish comprehensive protocols for disease prevention and rapid response mechanisms in zoological parks across Karnataka, ensuring better protection for endangered species like the blackbuck.
