The renowned tigress ‘Bijli’ from Raipur’s popular jungle safari in Chhattisgarh has fallen seriously ill. Her health had been deteriorating steadily due to severe kidney complications and other medical issues. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the State Government along with the Forest Department decided to shift her to a facility capable of providing advanced medical care. She has now been transferred to Vantara India, a wildlife hospital operated by the Ambani Foundation in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
Special Arrangements for the National Heritage Tigress
Bijli is considered a national wildlife treasure, and ensuring she receives prompt and high-quality treatment has been treated as a top priority. For this purpose, the Forest Department coordinated with Indian Railways to arrange a special coach for her transfer. The specially prepared coach ensured her comfort and safety throughout the journey from Raipur jungle safari to the railway station.
During the transfer, teams from the Forest Department, local administration, and Indian Railways worked meticulously to guarantee a smooth and secure transit. The operation highlighted the commitment of authorities to wildlife welfare and the importance of advanced medical care for endangered species.
Health Issues of Tigress Bijli
At just 8 years old, Bijli is relatively young, but she is suffering from a serious uterus infection along with kidney problems. Attempts to treat her locally in Raipur were not sufficient to address the severity of her condition. After consultation with wildlife experts, the decision was made to transport her to Vantara India, where she will receive state-of-the-art treatment under the supervision of highly skilled veterinarians and wildlife specialists.
Journey to Gujarat
Bijli was transported via the Howrah-Ahmedabad Express, utilizing a specially modified rail coach. The transfer was executed with extreme caution, considering her delicate health. Forest officials ensured continuous monitoring during the journey, providing both medical support and security measures to prevent any stress or injury to the tigress.
The journey itself demonstrates the level of attention and care given to wildlife conservation, emphasizing how endangered animals like Bijli are treated with the same urgency and precision as human patients in critical condition.
Advanced Treatment at Vantara India
Upon arrival at Vantara India, Bijli will undergo thorough medical evaluation and receive advanced treatment, including kidney care and management of her uterine infection. The hospital is equipped with modern diagnostic tools and veterinary expertise, making it one of India’s premier wildlife medical facilities.
The Ambani Foundation’s wildlife initiative ensures that animals like Bijli receive high-standard treatment and rehabilitation, aiming for a full recovery so that they can safely return to their natural habitat.
Also read: Vantara India Visit: Experience India’s Premier Wildlife Sanctuary
Future Plans and Rehabilitation
Once Bijli’s treatment is complete and she has fully recovered, plans are in place to return her safely to Raipur. The Forest Department has assured that her rehabilitation will be monitored closely, ensuring she regains her strength and health before rejoining the jungle safari environment.
Experts emphasize that timely intervention is critical in wildlife care, especially for species like tigers that are already endangered. Bijli’s case highlights the collaborative efforts of state authorities, wildlife experts, and private initiatives like Vantara India to protect and preserve India’s wildlife heritage.
Also read: Vantara Verdict: A Landmark Step in Wildlife Conservation and Public Interest
Significance of the Move
This transfer of Bijli to Vantara India not only ensures her survival but also showcases India’s growing capabilities in wildlife conservation. It reflects a proactive approach where public and private sectors come together to provide emergency medical care for animals in critical conditions.
By prioritizing advanced treatment and expert care, such initiatives play a crucial role in sustaining tiger populations and promoting ecological balance. Bijli’s case serves as a model for handling medical emergencies in wildlife, demonstrating how speed, planning, and expertise can make a life-saving difference.
Also read: Vantara: World’s Largest Animal Rescue, Rehabilitation and Conservation Center in Jamnagar
Conclusion
The story of Bijli underscores the importance of wildlife protection and medical readiness in India. Her transfer to Vantara India is a significant step in safeguarding endangered species and ensuring that animals receive the highest standard of care. Authorities, wildlife enthusiasts, and citizens alike are closely monitoring her treatment and hoping for her swift recovery, anticipating the day when she will return to her home in Raipur, healthy and thriving.
