Rebecca Manzi He didn't think twice about throwing himself into the raging river to save this baby elephant who was struggling against the force of the water, dragged away by the current
@himantabiswa/X
The monsoon rains in Assam have brought much-needed relief from the summer heat, but they have also caused severe flooding, threatening both human lives and wildlife. Among the many stories of devastation, one particular incident has captured the attention of social media and the public: the rescue of a baby elephant trapped in a swollen river.
Heroic rescue of a baby elephant
A viral video shows a man braving the turbulent waters to save the young elephant. The incident took place near Chirang, where the calf, separated from its mother, struggled to keep its trunk above water as it was swept away by the current of the Aie River.
The man, displaying great courage and determination, managed to reach the elephant, holding it firmly in his arms until help arrived. A crowd watched and participated in the rescue efforts. Once out of the water, the frightened calf was wrapped in a warm blanket and taken to a wildlife rehabilitation center, where it received initial veterinary care.
“Monsoons can be rough even on our gentle giants 🐘
Recently, our forest officials rescued a baby elephant who lost her way along the Aie River in Chirang. She is currently being treated at Manas National Park as we try and establish contact with her mother 🤞#TeamAssam”
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) July 2, 2024
The mother could not be found
Despite efforts, authorities were unable to locate the calf’s mother. The Assam Forest Department decided to transfer the baby elephant to Manas National Park for further care and rehabilitation. Here, the calf will be prepared for a potential return to the wild.
Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, shared the rescue video on X (formerly Twitter), praising the rescuers’ bravery. Social media users responded with waves of appreciation and gratitude, commending the altruism shown by those involved.
One user wrote, “Not all heroes wear capes”. Another commented, “There is still humanity in the world. This has restored my hope”. While monsoon floods will continue to pose a challenge, such acts of bravery make a difference and save both human and animal lives.
