Keonjhar: The death of four female elephants that occurred during the last 20 days in Keonjhar district, were due to infection. This was confirmed after post-mortem of the carcasses was and testing of blood samples was conducted. The reports were handed over Sunday.
According to Bhuyan Juang Pidh forest range officer Manas Murmu, the recent jumbo deaths had triggered controversy across the district. Acting on instructions from his superiors, Murmu also collected the blood sample of the pachyderm that had last died a few days ago. After thoroughly examining the carcass and then testing the blood sample, it was evident that the elephant had died due to an infection.
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Keeping in mind, the danger of the infection rapidly spreading among domestic animals, a massive vaccination drive has been launched in villages under Bhuyan Juang Pidh forest range for cattle.
Murmu also said that the forest department is also keeping a close watch on the wild elephant herds in the locality.
PNN