Guwahati, 14th August: In a heartwarming rescue operation, a young elephant calf, estimated to be just 15 to 18 days old, was saved from a life-threatening situation on the Indo-Bhutan border in Aurangabaduli, Bhergaon. The calf, separated from its mother, had fallen into a pond and was unable to climb out despite numerous attempts, leaving it in a perilous state.
The rescue effort was led by Dibakar, an observer from the wildlife conservation NGO Aranyak, with the support of a group of dedicated youths committed to protecting wildlife in the region. Their quick and coordinated response successfully freed the struggling calf, which was then safely released back into the wild under the supervision of a ranger from the Nanai Range Forest Department. Dibakar’s bravery and dedication have earned him widespread praise from the local community and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
This incident highlights the increasing human-elephant conflict along the Indo-Bhutan border. As elephants stray from their forest habitats in search of food, they frequently encounter human settlements, leading to property damage, fatalities, and often violent retaliations. This year alone, the ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of eight wild elephants and nine people.
Despite the growing severity of the situation, the forest department has faced challenges in effectively managing the crisis, leaving both human and elephant populations vulnerable to further incidents.
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