A 27-year-old trainee veterinarian has been fatally mauled by a pregnant hippopotamus after entering its enclosure for a late-night medical checkup at a zoo in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. The tragic incident occurred at the Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari in Shivamogga, raising serious questions about safety protocols and supervision.
Late-Night Incident Details
Sameeksha Reddy, who had recently been appointed as a veterinary officer and was still undergoing training, entered the hippo enclosure at approximately 11:45 PM on Thursday. Her objective was to monitor the condition of the eight-month pregnant animal using a thermal camera, as the hippo had reportedly not been eating and was expected to deliver within days.
Fatal Fall and Attack
According to safari executive director and deputy conservator of forests Amaresh, who goes by one name, Reddy fell from a ladder while inside the enclosure. This triggered an aggressive response from the hippopotamus, which attacked her. "The situation escalated within seconds, leaving very little time for reaction," he stated, noting that she sustained multiple injuries and lost a significant amount of blood in the assault.
Family Concerns and Investigation
Reddy's family has raised critical questions about why she was allowed inside the enclosure alone and so late at night. In response, Karnataka state authorities have ordered a high-level investigation into the death. Forest and environment minister Eshwar Khandre emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and if any dereliction of duty is found, action will be taken.
Memorial and Relief Offer
Mr. Khandre also revealed that the Karnataka government will dedicate a memorial to Reddy after her family declined the state's relief offer of Rs 3 million (approximately £24,000). The family, described as having great concern for animals, suggested that the funds be used in her memory instead.
Conflicting Accounts and Tributes
Dr. Murali Manohar, the veterinary officer of the zoo, contradicted some reports by stating that Reddy "was not assigned to monitor health of hippopotamus." Meanwhile, tributes have poured in online for the trainee vet. Sowmya Reddy, a local politician and general secretary of All India Mahila Congress, expressed heartfelt condolences, saying, "May her soul rest in peace, and may her loved ones find strength to bear this irreparable loss."
This incident underscores the inherent dangers of working with large wild animals, even in controlled environments like zoos, and highlights the need for stringent safety measures and proper supervision, especially during nighttime operations.
