The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has waded into the circumstances surrounding the death of ten elephants in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh.
It has also raised concern about the safety of wildlife, livestock, and human beings due to poisoning effects by contaminated Kodo millet, a local grain. As the NGT observed the issue through news reports, this probe was started after the NGT took suo-motu cognizance when the incident came to its knowledge on November 12, 2024.
Initial findings indicate that the elephants could have consumed the toxic millet when they maybe had some poisonous substances added to them. The NGT has especially stressed that this kind of grain is hazardous and might affect not only elephants but also other animals and persons who may ingest or use the infected grain.
Based on the aforementioned studies, the NGT has expressed concern about the region’s poor compliance with environmental laws. It noted certain violations of main laws, including the Forest Conservation Act of 1980 and the Environment Protection Act of 1986. The tribunal has moved on the issue by serving notices to the concerned department to improve these flaws and better protect wildlife.
The case has been transferred to the NGT’s Central Zone Bench – the next hearing is due to take place on the 23rd of December, 2024. The decision made in this case could also affect wildlife conservation as well as crop production in the region.
The loss of these important keystone species will lead to increased competition over resources and increased vulnerability to disease and will only fuel additional demands for stronger protection for wildlife and their environments in the future.
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