Around 44 cattle have died after more than 75 animals suddenly fell ill at Shri Dharanidhar Gaushala in Changda village of Gujarat's Vav-Tharad district, India Today reported. The deaths triggered concern among local residents and cow protection groups in the area.

Source: India Today

The incident reportedly took place during the night, when several cattle suddenly began showing signs of illness. As their condition deteriorated and animals began dying one after another, the gaushala management contacted the Animal Husbandry Department and local veterinary doctors. A team of veterinarians reached the spot and began treatment immediately; despite their efforts, around 44 animals died, while the remaining affected cattle were saved through medical intervention.

News of the mass deaths spread across the area, and cow devotees, cow protection groups, villagers and residents from nearby areas gathered at the gaushala. Those present paid their respects to the dead animals, whose last rites were performed with Vedic chants, Bhaskar English reported.

Source: Bhaskar English

Poisoning suspected, cause not yet established

A preliminary suspicion points towards possible poisoning caused by contaminated fodder or exposure to pesticides. However, the exact cause of the deaths has not yet been established. Veterinary doctors conducted post-mortem examinations of the dead cattle and collected samples, which have been sent to a laboratory for testing. The final findings are expected to establish whether the deaths were caused by poisonous substances in the fodder, pesticide exposure or another factor.

The Animal Husbandry Department's team continued treatment and relief efforts at the gaushala for the surviving animals. Mahesh Dave, who provided details about the incident, said the situation had caused widespread grief among cow devotees and people in the surrounding villages. (With inputs from Pareshkumar Kishanlal Padhiyar, via India Today.)