Mystery Deepens Over Sudden Pig Deaths in Pune’s Kothrud Amid Public Health Concerns
Kothrud, 8th February 2025: The unexplained deaths of over 40 pigs in Pune’s Kothrud area since 1st February have raised serious public health concerns. Eight more carcasses were discovered yesterday, intensifying fears about a possible outbreak or environmental hazard. The deaths have been concentrated in a drain near the Kothrud Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) Depot, between Bharti Nagar and Bhimale Tower, where decomposing carcasses have triggered foul odours and growing anxiety among residents.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has been struggling to determine the cause of death, with veterinary officials citing the advanced decomposition of carcasses as a major obstacle. PMC’s veterinary officer, Dr. Sarika Funde, stated, “Post-mortem examinations of earlier carcasses were inconclusive due to decay. Blood samples from live pigs in the area have now been sent to the state animal laboratory for analysis.”
The latest deaths follow a concerning pattern—12 pigs were found dead on 6th February, adding to the 20 reported earlier in the week. Residents allege that the pigs are ingesting contaminated water from the drain, which carries untreated sewage and industrial waste.
While PMC has removed the carcasses for incineration, the lack of clarity over the cause has led to speculation about poisoning, disease, or environmental toxins. Authorities continue their investigation as concerns grow over potential risks to human health.
