What’s behind the deaths of 7 elephants in 2 days in Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh National Park?

Sub : Env

Sec: Protected Areas

Context:

The death toll of elephants in Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh, has risen to seven.
Potential Causes of Death:
- Elephants may have consumed pesticide-infected crops outside the forest, but further investigation is needed.

Bandhavgarh National Park:

Located in the Vindhya Hills of Umaria district, Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh was declared a national park in 1968, covering 105 square kilometers.
Known for its Royal Bengal Tiger population, it saw its first herd of elephants in 2018, which migrated from Chhattisgarh and settled in the park. Currently, around 60 elephants reside there.
History & Geography:
- Originally a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Rewa
- Features the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort, believed to be over 2000 years old
- Covers approximately 450 sq km of core area, plus a larger buffer zone
- Known for its varied topography including steep ridges, dense bamboo forests, and grasslands
Wildlife:
- Famous for having one of India’s highest densities of Bengal tigers
- Home to other big cats like leopards
- Large population of deer species including spotted deer, sambar, and barking deer
- Rich bird life with over 250 species
- Other wildlife includes sloth bears, wild boars, and various primates
Notable Features:
- Divided into several tourism zones including Tala, Magdhi, and Khitauli
- Best known for tiger sightings and wildlife photography opportunities
- Ancient caves with human artefacts and rock paintings
- The highest density of Royal Bengal Tigers in India