Authorities launch in-depth investigation into deaths of ten elephants in Bandhavgarh

Delhi & Madhya Pradesh: Following the tragic deaths of ten elephants in Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and the state government have launched high-level investigations, focusing on suspected poisoning.

Independent investigation underway by national and state bodies

The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, has assembled a specialized team to investigate the deaths, aiming for an impartial inquiry. Meanwhile, the Madhya Pradesh government has established a five-member state-level committee, led by the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), to conduct a parallel probe.

State Tiger Strike Force and local authorities mobilized

The State Tiger Strike Force (STSF) has intensified its patrols, combing the forest and nearby villages to gather crucial information on the incident. Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and Chief Wildlife Warden, Madhya Pradesh, is personally supervising on-site investigations to ensure a comprehensive response.

Senior officials visit to assess the situation

Top officials from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), including Additional Director General of Forests (Project Tiger & Elephant), have inspected the area. They held discussions with local authorities regarding potential causes and actions needed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Poisoning suspected, awaiting detailed reports

Preliminary findings suggest poisoning as a possible cause of death. However, the final conclusion will depend on toxicological and histopathological reports, along with other evidentiary findings. Samples from the deceased elephants have been sent to multiple laboratories for analysis.

Immediate response and background of the incident

The tragic discovery began when Bandhavgarh patrolling staff found four dead elephants in the reserve on October 29. Soon after, six more were found sick or unconscious, prompting urgent treatment efforts by local and national veterinary experts. Despite intensive care, all ten elephants, including six juveniles and four adults, ultimately succumbed. Reports suggest the elephants may have ingested toxins after raiding a nearby millet crop.

Ongoing preventive measures

State officials have stepped up monitoring efforts across Bandhavgarh to protect other elephant herds. Enhanced vigilance aims to mitigate risks and avoid further loss of wildlife due to suspected human-wildlife conflicts.