A 27-year-old veterinarian, Dr Sameeksha Reddy, died after being attacked by a hippopotamus at the Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari in Shivamogga district, Karnataka.
The incident occurred on Thursday night when Dr Reddy was inspecting the condition of a pregnant hippopotamus using a thermal camera. She fell from a ladder and the animal became aggressive, attacking her inside the enclosure.
Zoo staff rushed to her aid and took her to a private hospital in Shivamogga, where she succumbed to her injuries early Friday morning.
Forest Minister Eshwara Khandre has ordered an inquiry into the incident and directed officials to ensure Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are followed in all zoos.
