Hippopotamus block, baby hippopotamus at BBP to be named after Sameeksha Reddy

Other development works and new facilities aimed at strengthening wildlife conservation, improving animal welfare and enhancing visitor amenities at the park were also inaugurated. | Photo Credit: File Photo

As a tribute, Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment Ramalinga Reddy, who visited the Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP) on Monday, directed that the Hippopotamus Block and the baby hippopotamus at the BBP be named “Sameeksha” in memory of Sameeksha Reddy.

Dr. Sameeksha was a trainee veterinary doctor who tragically lost her life in Shivamogga while attending to a hippopotamus a few months ago.

Mr. Reddy also inaugurated a viewing tower at the Suvarna Elephant Care Centre, a dedicated facility focused on the health, care, welfare and management of elephants. Other development works and new facilities aimed at strengthening wildlife conservation, improving animal welfare and enhancing visitor amenities at the park were also inaugurated.

Additionally, he launched new electric vehicles to facilitate convenient transportation for visitors within the park. A new administrative office, Adavi, was also inaugurated. Meanwhile, a separate facility dedicated to the preparation and supply of live feed for animals has been set up at the park. Apart from this, operations at the newly developed quarantine facility for animals have begun.

A new cafe, Suvarnam, and a shopping facility with pictures of animals in the park printed on merchandise like t-shirts, bags and more, have also been set up.

Published - November 09, 2026 08:28 pm IST