Raipur’s Beloved Tigress ‘Bijli’ Passes Away at Vantara Wildlife Centre
Vantara: The famous Royal Bengal tigress Bijli of Raipur Jungle Safari is no more. She passed away late Friday night while undergoing treatment at Vantara Wildlife Rescue and Care Centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat. According to doctors, Bijli had been unwell for over a month and could not survive despite continuous medical care.
Shifted from Raipur to Gujarat for Advanced Treatment
In August, Bijli began showing symptoms of weakness and loss of appetite. The veterinary team of Raipur’s Nandanvan Zoo and Jungle Safari immediately started treatment, but her condition kept deteriorating. Initially, veterinarians suspected a hemoprotozoan infection, but later reports from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly, ruled out this cause.
Given her declining health, officials decided to transfer her to Vantara Wildlife Centre on October 7 for specialized medical attention. Vantara is known as one of India’s most advanced and well-equipped wildlife rescue and treatment facilities.
Despite Best Efforts, Life Could Not Be Saved
Veterinary experts at the Vantara Centre provided round-the-clock monitoring, nutritional supplements, and intensive medication. Unfortunately, all efforts failed, and the tigress breathed her last on Friday night.
Forest officials stated that the exact cause of death will be confirmed only after the post-mortem report is received.
Also read: Rescued Orangutan to be Returned to Indonesia by Vantara Rescue Center
An Icon of Raipur Jungle Safari
At just eight years old, Bijli had become the pride and face of Raipur Jungle Safari. Her majestic presence drew hundreds of visitors daily, and she was deeply adored by wildlife enthusiasts.
Forest officials expressed grief, saying, “Bijli was not just a tigress for us — she was the heartbeat of Raipur Safari. We tried everything to save her, but destiny had other plans.”
Concerns Raised Over Wildlife Healthcare
Bijli’s untimely death has reignited concerns about the state of wildlife healthcare and conservation systems in India. Experts emphasize that if more modern veterinary infrastructure and diagnostic technologies were available at the state level, many wild animals could be saved in time.
They stress the need for better coordination between zoos, safari parks, and specialized rescue centers like Vantara, which serve as a model for wildlife care.
Memorial to Honor ‘Bijli’s’ Legacy
The Raipur Jungle Safari administration announced plans to create a memorial corner dedicated to Bijli. Her photographs and videos will be displayed for the public, reminding visitors of her legacy and spreading awareness about wildlife conservation.
Bijli’s story stands as both an inspiration and a warning — a symbol of the beauty of India’s wildlife and the urgent need to protect it through improved care and awareness.
