Team Herald
PANJIM: Goa’s only zoological park located within the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary has been temporarily closed to the public following a suspected viral outbreak that resulted in the deaths of three civet cats and two jungle cats.
Sources revealed that while the animal deaths occurred between March 6 and 9, the official precautionary order to quarantine the premises was issued only on March 30. Consequently, the zoo has remained closed to the public since April 1.
As per guidelines issued by the Central Zoo Authority, when more than one animal death is reported, precautionary measures including quarantine must be implemented for a duration of 15 days.
Despite the seriousness of the situation, Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane told reporters that he had not been informed by department officials about the closure of Bondla Zoo following the fatal incidents involving the animals.
“I have sought an explanation and will take action against the officer concerned. I have asked to find out what had happened, what was the disease. I will see that a note is sent to the Chief Minister seeking immediate action,” said Rane.
Following the deaths of the animals, samples have been sent to a laboratory in Bhopal for analysis. No fresh deaths have been reported so far, officials confirmed.