Rescue of Elephant Amid Assam Floods Highlights Animal Welfare Efforts
Elephant Rescued from Flooding in Assam
Officials providing veterinary care to the elephant, at Balighat in Simaluguri. (AT Photo)
Guwahati/Sivasagar, Jul 25: A domesticated elephant was carried away by severe flooding from the hills of Nagaland to the Brahmaputra Valley, but it has since been rescued and is receiving treatment, according to Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah.
The 53-year-old elephant was swept away by the Dikhow River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra, originating from Namsang in Nagaland, and eventually washed up at Bihubor in Assam's Sivasagar district.
On Friday, the elephant was successfully rescued and provided with veterinary care, as stated by the minister.
"Our ongoing efforts to enhance disaster response and animal welfare focus on ensuring that all lives, whether human or animal, receive prompt care during emergencies," he remarked.
After the rescue, the elephant was transported to Balighat in Simaluguri, where it is currently resting under the watchful eye of authorities.
A veterinary team from the Nazira Veterinary Dispensary, along with the Nazira Mobile Veterinary Unit, quickly arrived to perform a thorough health assessment and administer immediate medical assistance.
Veterinary specialists have indicated that the elephant will be under constant observation to ensure it fully recovers from the stress caused by the flooding.
Mallabaruah emphasized, "Each monsoon brings significant challenges for both humans and animals in the Northeast. Effective rescue operations, expert veterinary care, and coordinated efforts from government agencies are vital in mitigating the effects of natural disasters on vulnerable wildlife and domesticated animals."
He added that the state government envisions an Assam where resilience to disasters is paired with compassion for all living beings.
"Every successful rescue reinforces our dedication to safeguarding the state's rich natural heritage while highlighting that humanity shines brightest when it extends care to those who cannot voice their needs," he concluded.
The flood situation in Assam remains dire, with water levels beginning to recede in some areas. Reports indicate that 61 lives have been lost due to the floods, affecting over 7.05 lakh individuals across nine districts, according to officials.