Now, localised healthcare for R’bore tigers

Jaipur: Rajasthan's first state-of-the-art veterinary hospital, with about 40 high-tech machines imported from abroad for X-rays, CT scans and advanced diagnostics, is nearing completion at Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (RTR).Constructed over 15 months under protocols of the Veterinary Council of India and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the hospital was allocated an additional Rs 4.5 crore in the state budget for procuring machines and recruiting specialist staff.A key feature of the hospital is its ability to treat tigers without repeated tranquillisation. Once a tiger is sedated and brought in, it can be moved into a specially designed squeeze-cage-treatment unit where medicines and injections can be administered safely."Previously, injured wildlife had to be located, tranquillised, treated and then released – the whole process often requiring repeated interventions. Now, animals can be treated and monitored within the reserve under expert guidance, which will save time and reduce stress," a forest official said.Spread over 1,000 square yards, the upcoming facility includes two large enclosures for injured animals, a treatment unit tailored to their sizes, a post-mortem chamber for detecting emerging diseases and two rooms, one for doctors and another for storing medicines and rescue equipment.Diagnostic tests that until now had to be sent to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute in Bareilly and involved wait times of 15-20 days can now be conducted on-site, with basic reports available within 24 hours."Basic diagnostic tests, including complete blood counts (CBC), can now be performed on-site, while more specialised forensic tests will continue to be sent to Bareilly," the official added."Once fully functional, the new facility will offer state-of-the-art care directly within the reserve, reducing the need for repeated sedation and long-distance transfers of injured animals," said divisional forest officer (DFO) Manas Singh.