Tragic End for Rescued Whale Calf in Maharashtra

Tragic End for Rescued Whale Calf in Maharashtra

VoM News Desk | November 16, 2023 | 01:09 PM IST | Maharashtra | Follow on Google News

Tragic End for Rescued Whale Calf in Maharashtra

Tragic End for Rescued Whale Calf in Maharashtra

In Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, a massive 40-hour-long rescue operation to save a stranded whale calf ended in tragedy. The 35-foot-long marine mammal, initially pushed back into the sea and believed to be safe, was found dead after washing ashore at Ganpatipule. The unfortunate turn of events occurred despite extensive efforts by forest officials, the police, local administration, Coast Guard, and community members.

Post-mortem to Ascertain Cause of Death

Deputy Forest Officer Girija Desai informed PTI that the whale calf, weighing nearly 4 tons, was alive and swimming after being sent back to sea. However, it likely developed health complications leading to its death. A team of wildlife veterinary experts from Goa is expected to perform an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. The necropsy process, which may take a day or two, involves thorough examination and adherence to prescribed procedures.

• Job Cuts at Axis Bank: 3,000 Employees Laid Off in Efficiency Drive
• Iran Proposes Three-Stage Framework for Talks as US Negotiations Stall
• LeT Commander Sheikh Yousuf Afridi Shot Dead in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
• Gangster Injured in Encounter With Police in Miran Sahib Jammu, Associate Escapes
• Christopher Luxon Announces New Zealand–India Trade Deal Signing

Rescue Efforts and Challenges

The rescue operation saw various methods being tried, including an attempt to airlift the whale calf, which proved difficult due to its weight. The rescuers provided hydration and care to keep the calf alive during the operation. However, efforts like tying and dragging the mammal caused injuries, leading to a change in the rescue method. A tugboat eventually dragged the whale calf into deeper waters, where it was seen swimming freely before it disappeared.

Community and Official Involvement in Rescue

The community and various authorities played a crucial role in the rescue mission. Locals and tourists initially spotted the struggling whale calf during low tide and alerted authorities, prompting the rescue operation. The collective effort was a testament to the community’s commitment to protecting marine life, though it ultimately couldn’t save the whale calf.

Tragic End for Rescued Whale Calf in Maharashtra: In case of rectification of any error in this Article, Visit on Correction Policy or Register your Query

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.