What Is Foot-And-Mouth Disease? All You Need To Know About The Suspected Cause Of 16 Deer Deaths At Pune’s Katraj Zoo

The recent deaths of 16 spotted deer at the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park in Pune's Katraj have raised concerns, with authorities suspecting Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) as a possible cause.

"We sent the viscera of the deer, and the preliminary observations indicate signs of the highly contagious viral disease. FMD appears to be the likely cause of the deer deaths. However, the exact reason will be known only after the results of the laboratory tests are received," an official at the zoo told The Free Press Journal.

"FMD is a viral disease that primarily affects cloven-hooved animals such as cattle, buffaloes, goats, sheep, deer and pigs. It spreads rapidly through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, animal feed and water, and in some cases, through the air. While not transmissible to humans, the disease can severely impact animal health and lead to death if left unchecked," he added.

Members of the Maharashtra State Wildlife Board and senior wildlife officials have expressed serious concerns over the zoo’s administration, particularly the failure to organise advisory committee meetings, which are a requirement set by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA). These meetings play a key role in assessing zoo functions, shaping strategic decisions, and safeguarding animal welfare in line with national conservation norms.

A senior official from the forest department also noted that the extended delay in conducting these meetings has led to several persistent administrative challenges.

Meanwhile, NCP-SP Working President and Baramati MP Supriya Sule took to X (formerly Twitter) and stated that an outbreak of 'Lumpy Skin' disease has been observed in Pune's Warje.

"The outbreak of 'Lumpy Skin' disease, which affects livestock, has been observed in the Warje. The disease is contagious and spreads very rapidly. Therefore, it is essential to control it in time," she said.

She also requested the Pune Municipal Commissioner to look into the matter seriously and implement appropriate measures.

"The number of affected animals is increasing in the Gokulnagar Plateau and Warje Malwadi areas. This is a highly concerning situation. The disease is contagious and spreads very rapidly. Therefore, it is essential to control it in time. A humble request to the Pune Municipal Commissioner: please take this matter seriously and implement appropriate measures," added Sule.