World · India Bureau
Fishermen rescue elephant calf swept away in Teesta River
A young elephant separated from its herd while crossing the Teesta River has been reunited with its mother following a swift rescue operation by local fishermen. The dramatic rescue was documented on camera as the calf struggled against strong currents near the barrage.
LSN India ·
The elephant calf found itself in peril when it attempted to cross the Teesta River near the barrage, where powerful currents separated it from the rest of the herd. Unable to navigate the treacherous waterway, the young animal was swept downstream by the force of the flowing water.
Local fishermen operating in the area responded quickly to the distressed calf, working to guide it to safety amid the challenging river conditions. Their intervention proved crucial in preventing the animal from being carried further downstream or succumbing to the hazards of the swollen waters.
Once brought to safety on the riverbank, the calf was successfully reunited with its mother and the rest of the herd, which had been waiting anxiously on the opposite bank. The rescue operation highlighted the collaborative spirit of local communities in protecting wildlife, with fishermen playing an unexpected but vital role in the animal's survival.
The incident underscores the challenges faced by elephant herds during river crossings, particularly during seasons when water currents are particularly strong. Wildlife authorities continue to monitor such crossings in regions where human settlements and natural habitats intersect.