Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh): A major veterinary disaster unfolded in Raipura village, where eight out of 57 horses transported from Hyderabad for a new racecourse died within five days.

This alarming incident has raised concerns among local authorities, the veterinary department, and animal rights organisations. The horses were brought to Jabalpur between April 29 and May 3, and the hot weather and long journey during transportation are suspected causes of the deaths.

Upon learning of the situation from horse owner Sachin Tiwari on May 5, the veterinary department mobilised a Rapid Response Team under district collector Deepak Saxena to examine all 57 horses.

Unfortunately, five additional horses died during the investigation. To rule out Glanders Disease, blood serum samples were sent to the National Equine Research Centre in Hisar, Haryana. So far, 44 reports have come back negative, with results for nine horses still pending. The remaining 49 horses are healthy but under close monitoring. 

Prafulla Moon, deputy director of Veterinary Department, confirmed that multiple Rapid Response Teams are on-site providing immediate care and treatment.

Former Union Minister and animal activist Maneka Gandhi has also stepped in, commending the swift action taken by the district administration.

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for improved standards in animal transportation and care, particularly regarding weather conditions, distance and biosecurity measures to prevent future losses.