The deaths of 10 deer at the newly inaugurated Puthur Zoological Park in Kerala have raised serious questions about staff negligence and poor management. Early findings suggest the animals were left outside their kraals overnight, exposing them to a possible stray dog attack.

According to Zoological Park Director B. N. Nagaraju, the deer showed no major injuries and might have died after panicking on seeing stray dogs. The exact cause of death will be confirmed only after the post-mortem, he said.

Forest Minister A. K. Saseendran has ordered a detailed investigation into the incident. A special committee has been formed to submit a preliminary report within four days and a final report within two weeks.

The post-mortem began on Tuesday afternoon, and the carcasses will be cremated within the park premises.

Stray dogs blamed for the deaths

Officials suspect stray dogs entered the park through an unsecured opening that was accessible during the park’s inauguration days. Locals have also voiced concerns that stray dogs often take shelter under parked vehicles and sheds nearby, worsening the menace in the area.

Park lacks key staff and facilities

Despite being built at a cost of Rs 275.10 crore, Puthur Zoological Park still lacks basic facilities and staff. There is no permanent curator, and only one staff member currently manages day-to-day operations.

The park also lacks a full-time veterinary doctor. Although an animal hospital functions inside the premises, it is run by a single doctor.

Safety standards not met

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) had granted the park only a temporary permit and listed 26 mandatory safety and conservation measures. However, most of these conditions remain unfulfilled. Many of the park’s structures, conceptualised 40 years ago, began operation without inspection or approval from the Central Public Works Department and continue without fitness certification.

History of animal deaths raises concern

Promoted as the largest zoological park in India, the Puthur facility has been under scrutiny since animal relocations from the Thrissur Zoo began last year. At least 26 animals have died during this period, including some captured from forests for treatment.

Out of 21 deer shifted to the new park, 10 died in the incident. Of the 200 birds and animals relocated so far, more than 30 have died within a year, while another 261 are still awaiting transfer.

Earlier lapses during animal transfers

The park’s handling of animal transfers has previously raised red flags. During the relocation of hippopotamuses from Thrissur Zoo, one animal reportedly broke its teeth, forcing a suspension of further moves. Experts said the hippos were not given adequate time to adjust before confinement.

In another worrying incident, a tiger attempted to leap out of its enclosure at the Puthur park, prompting authorities to increase security around all enclosures.