Assam Floods Claim Nine Animal Lives, Including Two Rhinos, at Kaziranga National Park

GUWAHATI: In a heartbreaking incident, the Brahmaputra River's floodwaters have wreaked havoc on Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam, resulting in the loss of nine precious animal lives, including two one-horned rhinos. As the water level slowly recedes, forest officials and wildlife authorities remain vigilant, closely monitoring the flood situation.

Arun Vignesh CS, the Divisional Forest Officer of Kaziranga National Park, expressed the somber news that the floods had claimed the lives of nine animals. Among the casualties were two rhinos, whose tragic demise adds to the concern for the already vulnerable population of the majestic one-horned rhinoceros. Additionally, one buffalo and a deer met a tragic fate, drowning in the floodwaters that submerged the park.

The calamity also extended to an unfortunate deer and a python, which were struck by a vehicle during the chaotic floods. Despite rescue efforts, a hog lost its life after being treated for injuries sustained during its rescue from the North bank of the park.

Though the water level is gradually subsiding, certain areas within the park still remain submerged, posing further challenges to the well-being of the animals and their natural habitat. The situation continues to be closely monitored by wildlife authorities, who are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and protection of the wildlife in the affected region.

Kaziranga National Park is renowned for its substantial population of one-horned rhinoceros, a critically endangered species. The rhino census conducted in 2022 had reported a population of 2,613 rhinos within the park, including 866 males, 1,049 females, 273 unsexed individuals, 279 juveniles, and 146 calves. The loss of two rhinos due to the floods adds to the concerns about the conservation efforts for this iconic species.

As the floodwaters recede, the task of restoring the park's ecosystem and safeguarding the remaining wildlife becomes a priority for authorities. It serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address the escalating impacts of climate change and protect these fragile ecosystems that are home to such diverse and endangered species.

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