Anil Kumble Launches Bengaluru’s Urban Wildlife Ambulance

Over the weekend, former Indian cricketer and Karnataka Forest & Wildlife Ambassador Anil Kumble launched a dedicated urban wildlife ambulance in Bengaluru. The initiative, a partnership between AI-native automotive platform company Tekion and Praana Animal Foundation, seeks to enhance emergency response capabilities for wildlife in the rapidly expanding city.

Bengaluru’s urban sprawl has increasingly intersected with natural habitats and wildlife corridors, resulting in a rise in human–animal conflict. To address this challenge, the specially designed wildlife ambulance is equipped to cater to a wide range of scenarios, including rescue and treatment of migratory birds, reptiles (including snakes), monkeys, and smaller mammals.

Features of the Urban Wildlife Ambulance

The wildlife ambulance is engineered for emergency scenarios and designed to ensure safe transportation and care of animals. Key features include:

• On-board trained para-veterinarian for immediate medical intervention

• Essential rescue and medical equipment to stabilize animals at the site

• Capability to support Forest Department operations in high-risk situations

• Ability to handle larger wildlife such as leopards, gaurs, and sloth bears straying into residential areas

• Provision for exotic birds and animals, including ostriches and emus, rescued from unauthorized breeding centers

The ambulance forms a critical link in the urban wildlife rescue and rehabilitation chain, facilitating transport to Bannerghatta Biological Park or Birds of Paradise Rehabilitation Centre for professional treatment.

Addressing Human–Animal Conflict

Bengaluru’s urban growth has led to frequent encounters between humans and wildlife. These interactions can pose risks to both animals and residents. The ambulance initiative is a proactive step to bridge the gap in emergency wildlife care. By providing swift and humane response, the service aims to reduce fatalities and injuries, while also supporting Forest Department interventions along the city’s periphery.

Stakeholder Comments

Samyukta Hornad, Founder of Praana Animal Foundation, emphasized the urgent need for such a facility:

“Bridging a critical gap in Bengaluru’s ability to respond swiftly and humanely to wildlife emergencies in urban areas is the need of the hour. We have set up a 24x7 helpline to report such incidents.”

Hornad further highlighted Bengaluru’s rich biodiversity and the displacement of wildlife due to urban development. She noted that the ambulance will assist not only native species but also exotic animals requiring rehabilitation.

Aravind Gowda, Senior Director at Tekion, underlined the corporate social responsibility angle:

“At Tekion, we believe corporate responsibility must translate into meaningful, on-ground impact. This partnership demonstrates how corporates, civil society, and the government can collaborate effectively to ensure timely and compassionate care for the ecosystem we all share.”

Government Support

The launch event was attended by Srinivasulu, Principal Secretary of the Department of Ecology & Environment, who acknowledged the vital role played by Praana Animal Foundation and Tekion in strengthening the State’s wildlife rescue infrastructure.

Helpline and Contact

The 24x7 helpline for reporting urban wildlife emergencies in Bengaluru is: +91 91088 19998. The initiative ensures that citizens have immediate access to trained professionals for emergency animal rescue and transport.

Conclusion

The launch of Bengaluru’s first dedicated urban wildlife ambulance marks a significant step in modern wildlife management in urban India. With increasing interactions between humans and wildlife due to rapid urbanization, such infrastructure is essential to ensure timely, humane, and professional care.

This initiative not only strengthens Bengaluru’s emergency response capabilities but also demonstrates the power of collaboration between corporates, civil society, and government agencies to protect both wildlife and communities.

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