VIDEO: Panvel Municipal Corporation Rescues Injured Tortoise From Wadale Lake; Hook Removed, Reptile Rehabilitated Safely

Panvel: A dramatic rescue operation led by the Panvel Municipal Corporation saved a tortoise that was found in distress with a fishing hook lodged in its mouth near Wadale Lake, Panvel.

The incident came to light when a resident Mukund Koli spotted the injured reptile and he promptly alerted the fire department of Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC).

A team from the fire brigade reached the spot and found the tortoise in a critical condition. "It was then safely handed over to the municipal veterinary team for further treatment," said an official.

The hook was removed by the veterinary department under anesthesia. Following a complete medical examination, it was confirmed that the tortoise had not sustained any internal injuries.

The tortoise was subsequently released back into its natural habitat at Wadale Lake in the presence of forest department officials. The rescue operation was made possible due to the timely action of the fire department and the coordinated efforts of the veterinary team.