A young veterinary doctor was killed in a hippopotamus attack at the Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari, marking a tragic incident at the wildlife facility. Dr. Sameeksha Reddy, aged 26 and originally from Bannerghatta in Bengaluru, had joined the safari just one-and-a-half months ago for training after completing her veterinary degree from the College of Veterinary Sciences at Hebbal.

The attack occurred late Thursday evening when she entered the hippopotamus enclosure to examine a pregnant animal that had not eaten, just days before its expected delivery. The hippo suddenly charged, inflicting severe injuries that led to heavy blood loss and unconsciousness.​

Safari staff rushed the critically injured doctor to Max Hospital in Shivamogga, but she succumbed to her wounds early Friday morning despite medical efforts. Originally from Bengaluru, Reddy was a dedicated professional committed to wildlife care, making her loss deeply felt in the conservation community. No other injuries were reported among the staff present.

Also Read: Delhi Weather Shift: Rare Western Disturbance Drops Temperatures 4.5 Degrees Below Normal

In response, Karnataka's Minister for Forests, Environment, and Ecology, Eshwar B. Khandre, ordered a thorough probe into whether safety protocols were followed during the examination. Officials must submit a report within seven days, focusing on enclosure access procedures and staff training. This incident echoes past zoo tragedies, such as a cleaner killed by a hippo in Lucknow in 2023 due to lapsed safety measures.

Tyavarekoppa Safari, a popular site housing tigers, lions, and other wildlife, enforces strict guidelines for handling large animals like hippos, known for their aggression, especially when pregnant or stressed. Experts note that hippos cause hundreds of human fatalities annually in Africa, underscoring the risks even in controlled environments. Enhanced barriers, tranquilizer protocols, and companion staff are standard, raising questions about their implementation here.

The event has prompted calls for statewide zoo safety audits amid growing wildlife tourism in Karnataka. Reddy's family and colleagues mourn her as a promising talent, while authorities work to prevent recurrences through better risk assessments and training. Investigations continue as the safari remains under scrutiny.

Also Read: Iran Releases Video of Mojtaba Khamenei Amid Coma Rumours, but Timestamp Raises Suspicion