10 blackbucks die due to 'bacterial infection' in Zoological Park in Jharkhand's Jamshedpur

Overview At least 10 blackbucks have died at Tata Steel Zoological Park (TSZP) in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand , due to a suspected “bacterial infection,” according to an official statement on Sunday, December 7, 2025 . The deaths occurred between December 1 and December 6, 2025 . The incident raises concerns about animal health management in zoos and the potential impact on conservation efforts. Key Developments Mortality: 10 blackbucks died within a week. Suspected Cause: Initial findings suggest Haemorrhagic Septicaemia (H.S.) , a bacterial disease caused by Pasteurella species. Investigation: Carcasses were sent to Ranchi Veterinary College (RVC) for examination. Precautionary Measures: Anti-bacterial treatment is underway at TSZP. Alert: Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park in Ranchi has been alerted and is taking preventive measures. Detailed Analysis The deaths at TSZP have prompted a thorough investigation to confirm the exact cause. Dr. Pragya Lakra from Ranchi Veterinary College (RVC) indicated that postmortem examinations suggest H.S. (Haemorrhagic Septicaemia) , a disease caused by Pasteurella bacteria. Further investigations are planned to confirm the diagnosis. The zoo, which initially housed 18 blackbucks out of a total of approximately 370 animals , is now left with only 8 blackbucks . Preventive Measures and Response Following the initial death on December 1 , samples were sent to Ranchi Veterinary College . Jamshedpur Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Saba Alam stated that the Central Zoo Authority has been informed about the deaths. Dr. M.K. Gupta , chairman of Ranchi Veterinary College’s Pathology Department , explained that Pasteurella spreads rapidly, affecting the lungs and causing sudden death. Common symptoms include high fever, swelling in the neck, and diarrhea. Extensive precautionary measures, including anti-bacterial treatment, are being implemented at TSZP . Broader Implications and Response The incident has triggered alerts at other zoos, including Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park in Ranchi. This zoo, housing 69 blackbucks , has initiated preventive measures such as spraying anti-viral and anti-bacterial medicines and regular bleaching in vulnerable areas, according to veterinarian O.P. Sahu . This highlights the importance of proactive disease management in zoological parks to protect animal populations. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS3: Environment and Ecology , specifically concerning biodiversity conservation and animal health. It also touches upon GS2: Health , regarding the spread and management of diseases. Understanding the causes and implications of such incidents is crucial for UPSC aspirants. Important Facts Date of Incident: December 1-6, 2025 Location: Tata Steel Zoological Park (TSZP), Jamshedpur Number of Deaths: 10 blackbucks Suspected Disease: Haemorrhagic Septicaemia (H.S.) caused by Pasteurella bacteria Response: Investigation by Ranchi Veterinary College, alert at Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park