Blackbucks swept away in floodwaters, fate unknown

Bhubaneswar: A disturbing video of blackbucks being swept away in floodwaters of Kharkhari river in Ganjam district emerged this morning sparking off criticism from people all across particularly wildlife enthusiasts.

While locals deny presence of blackbucks in the area, some pointed out that the animals could have got caught in a flash flood at the nearby Aska forest range.

Unconfirmed reports said that the blackbucks had recently been brought to the Ghumusara wildlife division for a special conservation programme.

However forest officials remained tight lipped about the incident or rescue efforts initiated.

As the video made rounds on the social media, people called for immediate rescue of the trapped animals. Former MP Baijayant ‘Jay’ Panda termed the incident as “highly disturbing & insensitive” and urged Peta India and WWF to step in to save the creatures.

A few others criticised the villagers for not making efforts to save the animals.

“All are equally responsible to save animals. People should have done something to save the animals instead of video shooting,” said Lipsha Dash.

Meanwhile reports on fate of the deer is yet to come in .