New Delhi, Sept. 18 -- In a tragic incident, the only African elephant at the Delhi Zoo, Shankar, died on Wednesday.

Following the sudden demise of the 29-year-old male elephant, the National Zoological Park (NZP) has ordered an inquiry to determine the cause of death.

Shankar died around 8 pm on Wednesday.

In a statement, the Delhi Zoo said: "Until September 16, there had been no report of sickness or abnormal behaviour. On the morning of September 17, however, Shankar was reported to have eaten fewer leaves and grasses than usual and had slight loose motion, though he consumed concentrate, fruits and vegetables normally."

The veterinary team of the National Zoological Park provided treatment, and Shankar was kept under observation b...