A baby elephant drowned while bathing in a pond in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh. Following the incident, other elephants in the herd pulled the body out, while the forest department completed the investigation and cremation procedures.
Raigarh: An emotional scene unfolded in Raigarh district, Chhattisgarh, when an elephant calf that drowned while bathing was pulled out by its own herd. This incident not only highlights the challenges of wildlife conservation but also offers a glimpse into the sensitivity and social cohesion of animals.
Elephant Calf Dies After Drowning in Pond
On Tuesday morning, a herd of approximately 22 elephants arrived at a pond in Ouranara, within the Chhal Range of the Dharamjaigarh Forest Division, to drink water and bathe. During this time, a female calf, less than one year old, ventured into the deeper part of the pond and drowned. Following the incident, the entire herd remained there for some time, as if paying a silent tribute at a companion's farewell.
According to forest department officials, the pond's depth was approximately 10 to 12 feet. This location was typically considered a safe spot for elephants to bathe, but recent increases in water levels had made it dangerous.
Herd Grieves Over Companion's Death
Immediately after the accident, the elephant herd behaved almost human-like. All the elephants gathered around the pond and collectively pulled the calf's body out of the water. According to eyewitnesses, the scene was extremely poignant — as if the herd was bidding a final farewell to its companion.
Experts state that elephants are highly social and sensitive creatures. They often display a profound sense of empathy when a member of their group dies, a behavior considered rare in the animal kingdom.
Forest Department's Prompt Action
Upon receiving news of the incident, the Forest Department team promptly arrived at the scene and secured the area. On Wednesday morning, a three-member veterinary team conducted a post-mortem on the calf, confirming that its death was due to drowning.
Following the post-mortem, the deceased calf was cremated in the forest. Officials stated that no signs of injury or infection were found on the elephant herd.
Appeal to Villagers to Exercise Caution
Divisional Forest Officer Jitendra Upadhyay informed that approximately 50 elephants are currently roaming in the Dharamjaigarh area. The department has issued warnings in nearby villages, appealing to residents to exercise caution. Villagers have been advised not to stay in fields at night and to maintain a safe distance from elephants.
This incident has once again compelled reflection on how risky increasing contact between humans and wildlife can be for both. This poignant yet emotional story from Raigarh has become an invaluable example of nature's sensitivity.
