As Indore grapples with a water contamination crisis that has led to multiple deaths and hospitalizations, a disturbing incident has emerged from the nearby Khargone district. Over 200 birds, including parrots, pigeons, diamond doves, and sparrows, were found dead in the Barwaha forest division area near Navghat Khedi. Preliminary investigations suggest the cause of death to be food poisoning.
The grim discovery was made on Monday when approximately 25 parrots were initially found dead under an aqueduct bridge near Navghat Khedi. By Tuesday evening, the number had tragically escalated to over 80, and by Wednesday, it surpassed 200. The deceased birds included not only parrots but also pigeons, diamond doves, and sparrows.
Veterinary doctors conducted postmortem examinations, and their initial assessment pointed towards food poisoning as the primary cause of death. Dr. Manisha Chauhan, a veterinarian involved in the postmortem, revealed that rice and small stones were found in the intestines of the parrots, with their digestive tracts severely affected. She noted that the intestines and liver were congested and had turned completely red, further indicating poisoning. Senior veterinarian Dr. Suresh Baghel concurred with these findings. Examinations of the other bird species are expected to follow. Bird flu has been ruled out as a cause.
Wildlife Warden Tony Sharma expressed concerns that the incident might be a deliberate act, suggesting a possible conspiracy. He noted that parrots are sometimes seen as pests due to the damage they can inflict on fruit orchards, raising the suspicion of intentional poisoning. Forest ranger Nishant Doshi confirmed that authorities are awaiting the official postmortem examination report before taking further action.
The mass bird deaths have sparked concerns about wildlife conservation and bird safety in the region. Authorities and wildlife enthusiasts are urging the public to refrain from feeding potentially contaminated grains to birds and to promptly report any unusual bird deaths. Navghat Khedi is known as a habitat for various avian species, heightening the alarm among environmentalists and local residents. If the poisoning is confirmed as deliberate, those responsible could face severe penalties under the Wildlife Protection Act.
This incident occurs against the backdrop of a severe water contamination crisis in Indore. Reports indicate that over 2,500 people have fallen ill, and several deaths have been reported due to contaminated drinking water supplied in the Bhagirathpura area. Initial investigations suggest that a leak in the main water pipeline, situated beneath a toilet, is the likely source of the contamination. The National Human Rights Commission has taken cognizance of the matter, seeking a detailed report from the Madhya Pradesh Chief Secretary within two weeks. The state government has announced compensation for the families of the deceased and has initiated measures to provide free treatment to those affected.
The conflux of these two events – the mass bird deaths in Khargone and the water contamination crisis in Indore – has created a sense of unease and heightened scrutiny on public health and environmental safety in the region.
