Over 75 cattle fall ill at Gujarat gaushala, 44 die despite veterinary treatment

More than 75 cattle fell ill overnight at a gaushala in Gujarat's Vav-Tharad district, leaving around 44 dead. Suspected contaminated fodder or pesticide exposure is being investigated through post-mortem samples.A preliminary suspicion points towards possible poisoning caused by contaminated fodder or exposure to pesticides. (Credits: Pareshkumar Kishanlal Padhiyar)Banaskantha, Gujarat,Nov 11, 2026 19:21 ISTAround 44 cattle died after more than 75 animals suddenly fell ill at Shri Dharanidhar Gaushala in Changda village of Gujarat's Vav-Tharad district, triggering concern among local residents and cow protection groups. Veterinary teams rushed to the gaushala and began treatment, but several animals could not be saved.The incident reportedly took place during the night, when several cattle suddenly started showing signs of illness. As their condition deteriorated, the animals began dying one after another, prompting the gaushala management to contact the Animal Husbandry Department and local veterinary doctors.A team of veterinarians reached the spot and immediately started treatment for the affected cattle. Despite their efforts, around 44 animals died, while the remaining cattle were saved through medical intervention.44 CATTLE DIE, LOCALS GATHER AT GAUSHALANews of the mass deaths spread across the area, following which cow devotees, cow protection groups, villagers and residents from nearby areas gathered at the gaushala. The sight of the dead cattle left people grieving, with several expressing concern over the incident. Those present paid their respects to the deceased animals, and their last rites were performed with Vedic chants.The incident has also raised questions about the possible cause of the sudden illness and deaths of so many cattle at the same facility.POISONOUS FODDER, PESTICIDE EXPOSURE SUSPECTED A preliminary suspicion points towards possible poisoning caused by contaminated fodder or exposure to pesticides. However, the exact cause of the deaths has not yet been established.Veterinary doctors conducted post-mortem examinations of the deceased cattle and collected samples for further investigation. These samples have been sent to a laboratory for testing.The final findings are expected to establish whether the deaths were caused by poisonous substances in the fodder, pesticide exposure or another factor.ANIMAL HUSBANDRY DEPARTMENT BEGINS INVESTIGATIONThe Animal Husbandry Department's team continued its treatment and relief efforts at the gaushala. The team's efforts to treat the affected cattle and save the surviving animals were appreciated by local residents.Mahesh Dave, who provided details about the incident, said the situation had caused widespread grief among cow devotees and people in the surrounding villages.- EndsWith inputs from Pareshkumar Kishanlal Padhiyar