Veterinary Doctor Killed In Hippopotamus Attack In Karnataka Zoo

bengaluru : A veterinarian at Tavarekoppa Lion and Safari Zoo in Shivamogga died after being attacked by a hippo while providing medical care to the animal in the enclosure. In the statement made by the office of Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre, it was stated that the late Dr Sameeksha Reddy (26) was recently appointed on contract basis.

It was stated that he was attacked by a hippo while he was taking care of the wild animal around 23.30 on Thursday.

He was rushed to a hospital in Shivamogga but succumbed to his injuries around 6.30 am on Friday, doctors said, according to Khandre’s office.

Describing this as an unfortunate incident, the minister said that the government stands by the bereaved family during this difficult time. “Every life is very precious. May God give the family the strength to bear this pain,” he said.

The Minister decided to pay compensation to the family of the deceased doctor in accordance with the norms.

He also directed veterinarians in all zoos in the state to strictly follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) while treating wild animals.

Khandre also directed a team of senior veterinarians and forest officials to initiate an investigation into the incident and submit a report within seven days.