The monsoon in India is a welcome respite from the intense heat, but with it comes torrential downpours and raging floods that wreak havoc. In the northeastern state of Assam, wildlife is severely affected because it is home to an elephant corridor and two major national wildlife parks. On 1st July 2024, a baby elephant was caught in the overflowing flood waters of a river. It would have been swept away but for a dramatic rescue that made headline news.
A dramatic rescue operation
In the heart of Assam, a dramatic rescue operation unfolded, showcasing the courage and dedication of local forest officials. This tale of heroism involves a baby elephant, a flooded river, and a team of determined rescuers. Read on to watch the complete video using the links provided in this article.
A distress call from the Aie river
Watch a video of the calf being hauled up
On the morning of July 1, 2024, distressing news reached the forest department in the Chirang district of Assam. A baby elephant, approximately 40-45 days old, was spotted struggling in the overflowing Aie River. The river, swollen due to recent heavy rains, posed a significant threat to the young calf.
The Flooded Aie River
The Aie River, known for its serene flow through Chirang, had turned treacherous due to incessant rainfall. The rising water levels and strong currents created a difficult situation for any animal caught in its path.
The elephant calf’s plight
Separated from its herd, the baby elephant battled the powerful currents. The sight of the calf struggling to stay afloat was heart-wrenching for the onlookers, prompting immediate action.
The calf struggled against the swirling waters.
Floodwaters in India, especially those caused by overflowing rivers, can be dangerous. They, are strong enough to sweep away vehicles, let alone a 45-day-old baby elephant. The calf exerted a mammoth to navigate the waters, moving forward as best as possible.
A baby with the courage of a mammoth
Impressive is how the calf does not give in to its predicament. Most animals are resilient creatures, and elephants will never go down without a fight. The baby inches its way to a nearby bridge where forest officers and locals are ready to haul it to safety.
Immediate response by forest officials
Upon receiving the alert, the Assam Forest Department acted swiftly. A rescue team comprising skilled wildlife rescuers and veterinarians was dispatched to the scene under the Aie Powali bridge, where the calf was last seen.
The rescue operation
The rescue team, equipped with ropes and other necessary tools, worked meticulously to reach the distressed calf. Navigating the challenging conditions, one worker jumped into the waters, in a bid to grab the calf as soon as it was close enough. He succeeded and secured the baby elephant with a harness so that it could be pulled up to safety by people on the bridge.
The calf is pulled up to safety.
A dramatic scene then unfolds with the elephant calf dangling at the end of a rope suspended from the bridge. The video below shows the elephant being hauled up to safety. It was still in danger mode, as the rope could have snapped with the elephant’s weight, but today, Lady Luck smiled on the little pachyderm.
Provided immediate care
Once out of the water, the calf was immediately assessed by veterinarians. It received essential medical care to address the exhaustion and stress caused by the ordeal. The team’s prompt response was crucial in stabilizing the young elephant. The calf was also fed and made comfortable in preparation for rejoining its herd.
Efforts to reunite with the herd
The initial plan was to reunite the calf with its mother. The forest officials attempted to locate the herd, but unfortunately, the mother could not be found. This led to a change in plans for the calf’s future.
A temporary shelter
The calf was transported to the Ranikhata Range under the Chirang Forest Division. Here, it received continued care and attention from the forest department staff, ensuring its well-being during this critical period.
Preparing for rehabilitation
Recognizing the calf’s need for a suitable environment to thrive, the forest department sent it to Manas National Park. This renowned park, known for its extensive wildlife rehabilitation programs, was deemed the ideal place for the calf’s recovery.
The journey to Manas National Park
The journey to Manas National Park was carefully planned to ensure minimal stress for the young elephant. Forest officials accompanied the calf, ensuring its safety and comfort throughout the trip.
Floods cause havoc in forest sanctuaries.
Floods caused by overflowing rivers are natural disasters that cannot be averted. Unfortunately, animals, even juvenile elephants, often find themselves trapped in water-filled craters and ditches. It is only through vigilance and fast-acting forest personnel that several are saved every day.
Several animals rescued from floods in Kaziranga National Park
In the first week of July alone, a team headed by the Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC), India has rescued 73 animals, including otters, hog deer, sambar deer, and a two-year-old female rhino calf stranded in floodwaters in Kaziranga National Park.
Conclusion
The rescue of the baby elephant from the Aie River is a testament to the dedication and bravery of the Assam Forest Department. Their swift actions save lives and highlight the importance of wildlife conservation efforts in the region.
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