Authorities in Gujarat have begun isolating lions within a 10-kilometre radius of areas affected by suspected Babesia infection, following the recent deaths of lion cubs in the Gir Somnath and Amreli districts.
State minister Arjun Modhwadia said the precautionary measures were initiated to prevent the possible spread of the infection among the lion population.
Samples collected from the deceased lion cubs have been sent for laboratory examination, and officials are awaiting the test results to confirm the cause of death.
In a video message released on Thursday, Modhwadia stated that doctors from Junagadh Veterinary College, working alongside frontline forest staff, have isolated lions in the identified zones as a preventive step.
The move comes amid concerns over the suspected Babesia infection, as wildlife authorities closely monitor the health of lions in the affected regions.
