EnvironMin seeks report on death of blackbucks

The Union Environment Ministry has sought a report from Delhi Zoo authorities on the death of ten blackbucks there allegedly due to consumption of sewage water that had flowed back into their enclosure.

New Delhi: The Union Environment Ministry
has sought a report from Delhi Zoo authorities on the death of
ten blackbucks there allegedly due to consumption of sewage
water that had flowed back into their enclosure due to a
blockage in sewer line.

"A team comprising of veterinarians from Wildlife
Institute of India (WII) has also been sent to the Zoo to look
into the reasons for the death and suggest recommendatory
measures," a senior Environment Ministry official said.

National Zoological Park`s veterinary doctor Panneer
Selvam said the animals died due to intestinal infection
caused due to consumption of sewage water that had flowed into
their enclosures from a drain pipe opening up in Yamuna river.

"Their enclosure is in a low-lying area and due to heavy
rains and floods, the dirty water entered the moats. After the
incident all the remaining 60 blackbucks have been moved to a
safer place and are being monitored," he said.

The zoo lost six blackbucks on Sunday while four died
last week. The post mortem revealed intestinal infection and
consequent haeomorrhage.

Selvam said lime spraying is being carried out in the
affected areas and rest of the animals are being treated.

During 2009-10, 1792 animals have reportedly died in
different recognised zoos of the country, which the government
feels is not alarming by international standards but certainly
a case of worry, Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh had said
in Parliament recently.

PTI

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