MAJULI: As many as five one-horned rhinos that strayed out of the famous Kaziranga National Park caused panic among the people of Majuli. The reported incident took place last Wednesday.
The One-Horned Rhinocerous are large herbivorous animals whose diet includes grass and small plants. Fresh grass and paddy are known to be among their favourites. In spite of being large in size and very bulky in build, these animals are good swimmers.
The Kaziranga National Park is the main habitat of these species of rhinos. They are not found anywhere in the world except for this region of the country.
It is not uncommon for these animals to venture out of the protected region to nearby areas. These animals usually prefer being solitary and are known to attack if anything tries to get close it.
These rhinos are said to have been in the island district of Majuli for the last few days. Reports suggest that they have been moving around the villages in the district during these days. Fear of damage to crops as well as life and property by these protected animals has caused panic in the people of the island.
"Out of five rhinos, one rhino is now taking shelter at the Kerela Chapori area. Last night the rhino was roaming at Major Chapori, Malaya Chapori, Kuli Chapori. Five rhinos entered into Majuli and two out of five have now been moving towards West side," mentioned Nripen Bhuyan. He is an employee of the Forest Department of Assam and is currently posted in Majuli
Another important point to be noted is that this is the start of the tourism season in Assam. So many tourists are visiting the places of tourism interest in the district. Also with the Raas Festival of Majuli just around the corner, many people including children are busy in practices for Bhauna across the district. Thus increasing the fears of both locals and tourists.
Also Watch: