India, July 27 -- After laboratory reports confirmed that foot and mouth disease (FMD) caused the recent deaths of 16 spotted deer at the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Pune municipal commissioner Naval Kishore Ram has directed zoo authorities to submit a detailed explanation.

"The civic chief has issued instructions. Further action will follow once the report is submitted," said Omprakash Diwate, additional municipal commissioner.

Between July 6 and July 12, the Katraj zoo reported the deaths of 16 spotted deer - 14 females and two males - triggering serious concerns about the zoo's health monitoring and safety protocols.

In response, the zoo's health advisory committee implemented emergency biosecurity measures and carried out prevent...