Medical help pours in as 'Save Bijlee' cry grows louder

As the spotlight is on the ailing Bijlee, a 58-year-old elephant, citizens, animal lovers and vets have one voice — save Bijlee.

Vets and experts have come in from across the country to treat Bijlee, who collapsed about a week ago after falling into a creek at an industrial complex in Mulund.

The elephant, who is being treated in Raja Industrial Estate in Mulund, is fighting to recover.

As it has been raining continuously in the city, a 40x20 feet shelter was built for Bijlee on Tuesday. She can stand up only with the help of cranes because of injuries on her hind legs.

Dr Kushal Sharma, an elephant expert, flew in from Assam to start the line of treatment.

“We are expecting a specialist from Delhi by tonight and another from Bhopal by tomorrow. A wildlife specialist from Pune is also here,” Ankita Pathak, a member of Animals Matter To Me (AMTM).

Since the NGOs — AMTM and Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare — have taken over the situation, Bijlee’s condition has shown a little improvement.

Locals claim that the elephant was hit by a truck about four months ago and because of the wounds, she collapsed last week. Bijlee weighs 4,500 kgs and is overweight by 1,500 kgs. Some think this has added to her medical situation.

The elephant owner, Rati Ram Maharaj Goswami, has other elephants which he uses to earn money. One of his elephants, 20-year-old Laxmi is giving Bijlee company at the Mulund ground.

The NGOs, who were frantically appealing to animal lovers for funds, have stopped collecting donations, saying they have enough money now.

Help has poured in from citizens across the city, including residents and local politicians. “We will extend full support for the elephant’s treatment. Bijlee does not look too good but I’m sure she will be fine soon,” said Kanhaiyalal Gupta, a local activist.