Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal

Bantwal, Sep 26: Three gaurs, including a calf and two female gaurs, died after falling into a black stone quarry near Ukuda. Forest officials have registered a case under the Wildlife Protection Act and are investigating the incident.

On Friday, the calf and two female gaurs suddenly entered the stone quarry. When attempts were made to bring them out, the frightened animals ran in different directions and fell into the quarry pit, sustaining injuries. On receiving information, forest officials rushed to the spot and attempted to rescue the gaurs. However, the injured animals had died.

The carcasses were brought to a protected forest area, where post-mortem examinations were conducted in the presence of ACF Subbaiah Naik. Further procedures were then carried out.

ACF Subbaiah Naik, DRFO Veeranna, Ullas, Chandru B J, Rajendra Kumar, Mahabala, forest guards Dayananda and Raghu P B, forest watchers Muttanna and Baganna, among others, were present.

It is said that following the construction of the UKTCL 400-kV power transmission line, wild animals have been moving towards human habitation. The gaurs are believed to have arrived from a nearby forest area. The absence of adequate safety measures around the quarry is said to have caused the tragedy.