Odisha Forest Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia has assured strict measures against those involved in the illegal trafficking of orangutans, confirming that a letter has been sent to the Central Zoo Authority to initiate legal and administrative proceedings.
Speaking on the probe, Minister Khuntia stated that a specialised team will visit the state to assess environmental conditions before determining further steps. DNA testing will also be conducted on the primates to trace their origin, involving joint efforts by the Government of India and the Government of Odisha.
Current Health and Care at Nandankanan Zoo
Five orangutans have been placed in quarantine at the Nandankanan Zoological Park over the past two days. Veterinary doctors are conducting regular health checks to monitor their condition continuously:
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Group Dynamics: The five orangutans spend their day together—eating, playing, and resting as a group. At night, two sleep together while the remaining three rest separately.
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Feeding Schedule: The primates are fed every two hours to maintain their nutrition and routine.
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Environmental Control: Air conditioning runs 24 hours a day in their enclosure to keep the climate comfortable, with windows opened in the morning for natural ventilation.
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Health Status: One young orangutan had a minor fever yesterday, which has reduced today, though the animal remains slightly nervous. Experts are monitoring all five primates to ensure their long-term adaptation to the zoo.
Multi-Agency Probe and Interstate Coordination
Authorities are currently questioning individuals associated with a suspicious vehicle linked to the transit. Inter-state wildlife protection protocols and national wildlife protection laws will guide the full investigation.
The ongoing probe involves coordination between:
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Odisha Police and Local Administration
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Forest Department Officials
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Special Task Force (STF)
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West Bengal Police and Regional Authorities
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National and International Animal Welfare Organisations
A complete picture of the network is expected once DNA results arrive and joint agency operations progress.
