11 lions found dead in Gir Forest, Gujarat govt orders inquiry

Gujarat : The dead body of 11 lions has been recovered from the Gir National Park in Gujarat. The shocking news has led the state government to order an inquiry. The forest is home to Asiatic Lions. According to 2015 census, there are 106 male, 201 female and 213 sub-adult lions in the wilderness.

But unfortunately, the count has lowered. All the dead lions were found in Gir (east) division, mainly from Dalkhaniya range in the last few days, an official said.

"We have found carcasses of 11 lions from Gir east forest range," said P Purushothama, the Deputy Conservator of Forest, Gir (east). For administrative purpose, the Gir forest has been divided in east and west parts. 

The forest department found carcass of a lioness in a forest near Rajula of Amreli district Wednesday, while three more lions were found dead the same day in Dalkhaniya range area in the Gir forest, a senior official said.

Carcasses of seven other lions were found in the last few days, he said.

"We have collected viscera samples of the dead animals and sent them to the Junagadh Veterinary Hospital and are waiting for the postmortem report," he added.

Additional chief secretary of the Forest and Environment Department Dr Rajiv Kumar Gupta said the state government has asked to investigate the issue. Accordingly, the probe will be conducted by the principal chief conservator of forest. 

"Primary information shows that eight deaths have occurred due to infighting. For the rest three, postmortem reports are awaited," Mr Gupta added

"Most of the deaths are due to infighting and injuries caused thereby, mainly affecting cubs and females. This trend is being noticed over a period of three to four years. No foul play or suspicion is suspected," PCCF wildlife A K Saxena said to the media.