Guwahati, Aig 5: For five days, the Nilachal Hills of Kamakhya echoed with the sounds of an elephant’s restless journey and the determined efforts of a rescue team. The male elephant, displaced by the rising waters of the Brahmaputra, had wandered from Chandrapur Beat, through Ramsing Chapori, to the dense forests of Kamakhya.

The saga began on July 20, when the elephant was first sighted at Chandrapur. Driven by the river’s current, it made its way to the Chapori region, only to find refuge there for a few days. On July 24, it ventured into the Nilachal Hills, disappearing into the jungle’s embrace. For two days, the forest personnel, led by Range Officer Pranjal Baruah, scoured the area, their eyes scanning every thicket and hillock.

The elephant reappeared on July 26, startling locals in the Bongsi Bagan area of Kamakhya. It caused minor damage before retreating into the forest once again. A joint team from multiple forest ranges, police, and the district administration swung into action, monitoring the elephant’s movements and ensuring the safety of both the animal and the local residents.

The rescue mission faced numerous challenges. On July 27, 29, and 31, efforts to sedate the elephant were thwarted by the rugged terrain and poor road access. Despite these setbacks, the team managed to contain the elephant in the Kalipur area. The dedicated squad, including Kunki elephants and a special anti-depredation team, worked tirelessly to prevent the elephant from straying into nearby communities.

The climax came on the night of August 4. After ten hours of relentless effort, the team, led by Dr. Pranab Das from the Assam State Zoo, succeeded in tranquilizing the elephant near Nilachal Vidyapeeth. As dawn broke, the majestic animal was carefully transported and released into the Rani Reserve Forest, its new home.

Two Kunki elephants and one special anti-depredation team were engaged comprising officers viz, Assistant Conservator of Forests( ACF) Puspadhar Buragohain, ACF Manuranjan Barman, range officer Pranjal Baruah Fatasil beat officer Mukut Malakar, Khanamukh beat officer Jintu Talukdar, forester-1 Hitesh Kumar Das (Deepor beel), South Guwahati and Amchamg Wildlife Range, wildlife rescuer Shyamanta Ram Phookan under the leadership of Kamrup Division divisional forest officer Rohini Ballave Saikia and guidance from Kaushik Barua, member of IUCN Asian Elephant Specialist Group and Founder of Assam Elephant Foundation.

“No major injuries were observed during the operation,” said Baruah.

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