When you visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Bijalee won’t be there

Bijalee, an 18-year-old tiger and a beloved attraction at Mumbai's Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), has passed away due to age-related health problems. This tragic loss has reduced the tiger population in the park to 11 individuals. Forest officials reported that Bijalee succumbed to her declining health while receiving veterinary care on Wednesday, September 16, at approximately 9:45 pm.

The SGNP administration announced that a standard post-mortem examination will be conducted to ascertain the precise cause of her demise. Notably, Bijalee's death occurred six months after another 15-year-old lion, Bharat, also died in the park due to age-related complications. Preliminary assessments suggest that Bijalee's death was primarily caused by old age, but the post-mortem examination will provide a definitive answer.

Park authorities had been closely monitoring Bijalee's health due to her decreasing appetite and provided her with appropriate veterinary and supportive treatment. She had been transferred to SGNP from Pench Tiger Reserve in July 2016 to enhance tourism and contribute to the park's wildlife management, conservation education, and captive animal care initiatives.

Throughout her time at the park, Bijalee became a familiar and cherished sight for visitors and played an integral role in the park's conservation efforts, bringing immense joy to all who encountered her.