Stray Dog Attack Claims 15 Deer Lives at Chhattisgarh Animal Rescue Centre
In a distressing wildlife incident, a pack of stray dogs attacked and killed 15 deer inside an enclosure at an animal rescue centre in Chhattisgarh's Surguja district. The attack occurred at Sanjay Van Vatika in Ambikapur on the intervening night of Friday and Saturday, as confirmed by forest department officials on Sunday.
Details of the Tragic Incident
According to Surguja Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Abhishek Jogawat, a group of four to five stray dogs entered the park from the adjoining forest area. They managed to breach the deer enclosure, leading to a fatal assault. The casualties included fourteen deer that died on Saturday, comprising spotted deer, barking deer, and four-horned antelope. One critically injured animal succumbed to its injuries on Sunday, bringing the total death toll to 15. Jogawat confirmed that all deaths were due to dog bites.
Forest Department Response and Suspensions
Following the incident, the forest department took swift action by suspending four officials for alleged negligence. The suspended personnel include Deputy Ranger Ashok Sinha, who was also in charge of the park, along with forest guards Mamta Porte, Pratima Lakra, and Bindu Singh. Chief Conservator of Forests (Surguja Circle) Dilraj Prabhakar issued the suspension orders.
Additionally, Ambikapur Forest Ranger Akshapalak Rishi has been served a notice and given five days to respond. Failure to comply will result in further disciplinary measures. The forest department manages Sanjay Van Vatika, which is open to visitors and functions similarly to a zoo.
Inquiry and Postmortem Procedures
An inquiry team led by the Sub-Divisional Officer (Forest) of Ambikapur has been constituted to investigate the incident. DFO Jogawat emphasized that strict action will be taken against those found guilty of negligence. After conducting postmortem examinations, the carcasses of the deer were disposed of by burning, adhering to prescribed procedures to prevent any health or environmental hazards.
Broader Implications for Wildlife Safety
This tragic event highlights significant concerns regarding the safety and management of animal rescue centres in forested regions. The breach by stray dogs raises questions about enclosure security and the monitoring of peripheral areas. Forest officials are now under scrutiny to enhance protective measures and prevent such incidents in the future, ensuring the welfare of rescued wildlife in Chhattisgarh and beyond.
