Questions raised on continuous deaths after the body of a lioness was found in Amreli, Gujarat

There is an atmosphere of concern in the area after the body of a lioness was found near Mandardi village in Amreli district of Gujarat. Local authorities and wildlife enthusiasts have expressed concerns over the ongoing deaths of lions within the region over the past few days. They have questioned the Forest Department about whether the breakdown of any major virus is the cause behind these deaths.

The body of a lioness was found in a field near Mandardi village on Saturday. According to Amar Ujala, Forest department sources said that the body was taken to Babarkot Animal Center, where the cause of death was stated to be natural after the post-mortem. However, local leaders say that many lions have died recently, which raises suspicion that some infectious disease is the reason behind this.

Local MLA J.V. Kakaria has written a letter to Forest Minister Moolu Beda demanding an investigation into the matter. He feared that many lions had died of Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) in the past, and this virus may also be behind the recent deaths. However, the Forest Department has so far dismissed any such apprehension.

Deputy Conservator of Forest Dhananjay Sahu of the Forest Department stated that two lion cubs were recently saved from the Jafrabad Range, which were extremely weak. Both passed away while undergoing treatment. The major reason was mentioned to be anemia and pneumonia. The official stated that this is a natural phenomenon; sometimes, some cubs are weak since birth.

As a precautionary measure, the Forest Department has even brought two lionesses and six cubs for a routine checkup. So far, no virus infection has been detected in any of them. The officer explained that whatever measures the department is undertaking are being done under security and observation.

Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Jaipal Singh visited the area and said that all necessary steps will be taken for the safety of the lions. He said that I saw the rescued lions, they are healthy, and there is nothing to worry about. After discussing with the employees, work has started on all the necessary measures.

Jaipal Singh said that most of the deaths so far have been natural. Symptoms of pneumonia were found in one group, and very low hemoglobin was found in a cub, which was saved by giving a blood transfusion in time. He clarified that facts should be trusted instead of rumors, and the forest department is working with full vigilance.