Giraffe Tsunami Basant Passed Away at Nehru Zoo

Hyderabad: Tsunami Basant, a popular giraffe at the Nehru Zoological Park, died at about 11.30 pm on Monday due to age-related complications. The 20-year-old giraffe, born in New Delhi’s National Zoological Park during the 2004 tsunami, had been a key attraction at the city zoo since he arrived in 2009 through an animal exchange programme.

Basant’s death leaves his friend, another male giraffe named Sunny, all alone at the zoo.

Basant had been under treatment for arthritis in his hind legs over two years, receiving care under the supervision of Dr M.A. Hakeem, zoo deputy director.

Veterinary experts from VBRI, the Veterinary College in Rajendranagar, and CCMB LaCONES conducted a post-mortem to determine the precise cause of death of Basant, with samples sent for further analysis.

Dr Sunil S. Hiremath, zoo director, along with zoo staff, paid their respects and observing a two-minute silence at Basant’s enclosure. "Basant was a star attraction, charming visitors with his graceful walk," said Dr Hiremath, expressing sadness at the loss of a beloved animal in the zoo's collection.