Residents demand dedicated animal hospital in Navi Mumbai after flamingo deaths
- Indrani Basu
- 19 Feb, 2024
The recent tragic loss of seven flamingos has reignited calls for urgent action in Navi Mumbai, with advocates stressing the critical need for a dedicated animal hospital. Animal activists, rescuers, and caretakers of both domestic and wild animals have joined forces, emphasizing that the lack of timely treatment options is costing innocent lives.
Jyoti Nadkarni, a prominent animal activist, highlighted the dire situation, citing numerous instances where injured animals, both strays and wildlife, succumbed due to the absence of adequate medical facilities. She recounted a recent rescue mission with fellow rescuer Raghunath Jadav, where they saved the life of a three-month-old calf on the brink of death from maggot infestation. Despite their efforts, they had to transport the animal to Kalote Animal Trust for proper treatment, as Navi Mumbai lacks a comprehensive animal hospital.
Seema Tank, a dedicated feeder and caretaker of strays, echoed Nadkarni's concerns, emphasizing the financial burden faced by activists who often have to rely on expensive private clinics for treatment. Tank emphasized the urgent need for a dedicated animal hospital to alleviate the strain on resources.
Raghunath Jadav, drawing from his extensive experience, highlighted the challenges faced by rescuers, particularly during night hours when accidents frequently occur. With no accessible clinics open, they are left scrambling for options, often resulting in delayed or inadequate treatment for injured animals.
Anarjit Chauhan, a fervent animal lover and social activist, shed light on a promising development—a two-storey animal hospital near completion in Juinagar. However, delays due to internal issues within the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation have stalled its commencement, prolonging the wait for much-needed relief.