The unexplained deaths of bats in the Dalli Rajhara region of Chhattisgarh's Balod district have raised concern among authorities, prompting a joint investigation by the Forest Department and the veterinary department.Officials said reports of large numbers of dead bats being found daily at a specific location in Dalli Rajhara have emerged over the past several days. Between 50 and 70 bats are reportedly being discovered dead each day, with the number continuing to increase.Authorities have described the large-scale wildlife mortality as unusual and have placed the administration and the Forest Department on alert.Samples sent for laboratory analysisTo ascertain the cause of the deaths, officials from the Forest Department and the veterinary department have collected samples from the deceased bats and sent them to the ICAR-National High Security Animal Disease laboratory in Bhopal for detailed examination, reports IANS.Senior forest officials have directed an immediate inquiry into the matter and instructed concerned departments to remain vigilant. Forest teams are continuously monitoring the area and identifying affected zones.Officials said the exact cause of the deaths will be known only after the laboratory reports are received.Heat and infection among possible causesPreliminary assessments have indicated that extreme heat may be a contributing factor behind the deaths. Authorities have also not ruled out the possibility of an infection or disease outbreak.However, officials emphasised that no definitive conclusion can be drawn until the scientific investigation is completed and the laboratory findings are available.Public advised to avoid contact with batsThe administration has urged residents not to touch any dead or sick bats they come across. People have been asked to immediately inform the Forest Department or other relevant authorities if such incidents are observed.Officials said adherence to these precautions could help reduce the risk of any potential spread of infection.