Bengaluru NGO launches urban wildlife ambulance to boost animal rescue

Praana Animal Foundation, a Bengaluru-based non-profit founded by actor Samyukta Hornad, has launched an urban wildlife ambulance aimed at strengthening animal rescue efforts across the city. The ambulance was inaugurated on Sunday by former cricketer and Karnataka’s forest and wildlife ambassador Anil Kumble.

More than just a transport vehicle, the ambulance is a fully equipped, vet-on-board rescue unit designed to respond to animals in distress and help mitigate rising human-animal conflict in urban spaces. The idea emerged from Praana’s on-ground experience rescuing wildlife across Bengaluru. “We needed a specialised vehicle to safely transport wildlife from rescue spots to care centres,” said Aniruddha Ravindra, co-founder and co-director of the foundation.

Though launched on December 21, the 24-hour ambulance will be operational from January 1, 2026, with an average response time of 30 minutes. While the focus will be on south Bengaluru, the service will extend citywide and beyond when needed. Wildlife rescues will be free of cost.

Call helpline number 91088 19998.