Spotted Deer Rescued After Two-Day Operation From Mithi River to Powai

Powai, Mumbai | September 2025:

A spotted deer (chital) was successfully rescued and released after a two-day wildlife rescue operation that began at the Mithi River and concluded in Powai, Mumbai. The operation was carried out by the Forest Department, Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) Rapid Rescue Team, Wildlife Welfare Association (WWA), with support from local volunteers and Powai Police.

Deer Falls Into Mithi River, Rescue Begins

The incident was first reported on September 9, 2025, when the Wildlife Welfare Association received an emergency call regarding a deer that had fallen into the Mithi River. The information was immediately shared with the Forest Department, which rushed to the location along with the NGO team.

The deer was found trapped near a construction site along the riverbank. Rescue teams created a safe passage, allowing the animal to escape and move through a nearby green corridor towards Vihar Lake, its natural habitat.

Deer Sighted Again in Powai

On September 10, 2025, Powai Police Station reported another sighting of a deer near an IT examination centre in Powai. Teams from WWA, SGNP Rapid Rescue Unit, and the Forest Department quickly responded and located the deer in an abandoned plot with dense vegetation adjacent to a construction site.

Controlled Rescue by SGNP Veterinary Team

Considering the risk of injury to the animal and the public, officials decided to conduct a controlled rescue operation. Under the supervision of Dr Jangle, Head Veterinarian of SGNP, the deer was tranquilised and safely captured.

A medical examination confirmed that the animal—an adult spotted deer (chital)—had not suffered any injuries but was exhausted after being on the run for nearly two days.

Deer Released Near Vihar Lake

After being declared fit, the deer was safely released back into its natural habitat near Vihar Lake, Mumbai.

Importance of Wildlife Rescue in Urban Areas

The successful rescue highlights the importance of urban wildlife conservation, rapid response teams, and coordination between government authorities, NGOs, and local communities to protect animals entering city spaces.