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A Mumbai-based NGO has written to the authorities of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, raising serious concerns over biosafety measures and treatment protocols for captive wild animals housed inside the park. In a letter addressed to the Chief Conservator of Forests of SGNP, NGO PAWS-Mumbai alleged that there were gaps in infection-control practices while treating infected captive animals at the park. The NGO has demanded immediate implementation of strict biosafety and standard operating procedures inside the national park.

What PAWs says…

Sunish Subramanian Kunju, founder, PAWS-Mumbai
‘The disclosure of sensitive information could create unnecessary risks, and it highlighted possible lapses in infection-control measures during treatment of the animal. We have even asked whether infected animals were properly isolated and whether veterinary staff followed mandatory safety practices, including the use of protective clothing, disposal protocols, and disinfection procedures’

Alleged lapses highlighted…

The letter pointed to shortcomings in enclosure cleanliness, biomedical waste disposal systems, disinfectant arrangements, and isolation facilities within the park premises. “Fungal infections could pose risks to other animals, staff members, and public health if biosafety protocols are not followed. We have demanded implementation of protective gear for staff, establishment of isolation wards, regular disinfection systems, and formation of an independent expert committee to investigate the matter,” Kunju added.

Too much info…

The NGO urged SGNP authorities to avoid publishing excessive technical details and personal information of officers in future public communications related to wildlife health cases. It also requested immediate action and transparency.

The issue

The issue reportedly surfaced after SGNP authorities publicly shared medical details concerning the lion identified as ‘Bharat (L5)’. The statement reportedly included technical treatment information such as nebulisation procedures, blood reports, and fungal pneumonia diagnosis, along with names and contact details of officials involved in the treatment process.

Bharat (L5)
Name of lion whose medical details were shared publicly