Kochi: A cat that had been stranded on top of a Kochi Metro pillar for over a week has finally been rescued following a daring and intense operation. Affectionately named ‘Subhash’ by local auto-rickshaw drivers, the feline was safely brought down after prolonged joint efforts by the Fire and Rescue Services, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), and local animal lovers.
The cat was stuck on a metro pillar near the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kaloor. Initially, a major daytime rescue mission dubbed ‘Operation Meow’ was launched. The Fire Force and animal rescue teams attempted to reach the cat using a hydraulic lift, but the effort was unsuccessful. The mission hit a roadblock when the lift experienced a technical snag and the terrified cat ran and hid. Authorities even temporarily halted metro services to facilitate the rescue. By this time, the cat was in a highly weakened state, having gone without food or water for several days.
Following the setback during the day, authorities decided to resume the mission on a larger scale after regular metro services concluded at 11:00 PM. Around midnight, the high-voltage power supply to the metro tracks was completely shut off to ensure a safe rescue environment. A special trap cage was hoisted to the top of the pillar. Finally, at around 1:20 AM, the cat was safely secured, brought down, and immediately shifted to a veterinary hospital for expert medical care.
It was the auto-rickshaw drivers in the area who first spotted the cat on the pillar and gave it the name ‘Subhash’. They had been anxiously watching over it and had even tried to throw food and water up to the stranded animal. Putting an end to days of tension, the people of Kochi and animal welfare advocates breathed a huge sigh of relief as ‘Subhash’ was finally brought back to safety.
