Anil Kumble flags off mobile wildlife ambulance in Bengaluru

Former Indian cricketer and Karnataka Forest and Wildlife Ambassador Anil Kumble flagged off a dedicated urban wildlife ambulance in Bengaluru over the weekend.

The initiative, launched through a partnership between AI domestic automotive platform company Tekion and Praana Animal Foundation, aims to strengthen emergency response to wildlife during the city’s rapid expansion, according to a statement.

The specially designed wildlife ambulance will cater for a wide range of rescue scenarios, from migratory birds, reptiles (including snakes) to monkeys and smaller mammals.

The ambulance will have a trained assistant veterinarian and will be equipped with the necessary medical and rescue equipment to provide on-site emergency care and ensure safe transportation.

It is also designed to support the Ministry of Forests in high-risk situations, including the movement of larger animals such as leopard, gaur and sloth bear into residential areas, the statement said.

Animals rescued through this service will be transported to Bannerghatta Biological Park or Birds of Paradise Rehabilitation Center for professional treatment and rehabilitation, the statement said.

As Bengaluru continues to grow, the increasing overlap between urban habitats and wildlife corridors is leading to increased human-animal conflict.

Commenting on the initiative, Samyukta Hornad from Praana Animal Foundation said, “The need of the hour is to fill the critical gap in Bengaluru’s ability to respond quickly and humanely to wildlife emergencies in urban areas. We have set up a 24×7 helpline to report such incidents,” he said.

He said Bengaluru is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, which is increasingly being displaced or injured/damaged due to rapid urban development. In addition to being part of the wildlife rescue and transport service, the ambulance will support the efforts of the Ministry of Forestry, especially around the city.

“Beyond native species, the ambulance is equipped to safely transport ostriches, ostriches and exotic birds captured from unauthorized breeding centers in the city to appropriate rehabilitation facilities.” he added.

Launched under Tekion’s CSR initiative ‘Tekion for Good’, the project aims to bridge critical infrastructure gaps in the rescue, treatment and rehabilitation of urban wildlife.

Aravind Gowda, Senior Director, Tekion, “At Tekion, we believe corporate responsibility must translate into meaningful, relevant impact. This partnership demonstrates how companies, civil society, and government can effectively collaborate to provide timely and compassionate care for the ecosystem we all share.”

The launch event was attended by Srinivasulu, Principal Secretary of the Department of Ecology and Environment, who acknowledged the vital role played by Praana Animal Foundation and Tekion in strengthening the state’s wildlife rescue infrastructure. Praana 24×7 helpline can be reached at +919108819998.