Elephants were found dead in the Khitauli and Pataur ranges of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Umaria district on October 29. The viscera of the deceased elephants were subsequently sent to a laboratory for analysis. Additional Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Shri L. Krishnamurthy informed that the toxicity report from IVRI Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, was received on November 5. The report revealed the presence of Cyclopiazonic acid in the viscera samples and indicated that the elephants had consumed large quantities of spoiled kodo plants or grains. Further analysis is being conducted to assess the exact toxicity levels of the Cyclopiazonic acid found in the samples.
According to the report of IVRI, it has been found negative for the presence of nitrate-nitrite, heavy metals as well as organo-phosphate organo-chlorine, pyrethroid and carbamate group of pesticides.
Additional Chief Forest Conservator Wildlife Shri Krishnamurthy told that IVRI has also issued advisory in its report for the surrounding areas, in which points like awareness among villagers, not allowing cattle to graze on damaged crops have been given, which will be followed by the management.
