Assam: Tourists Make Narrow Escape as Charging Rhino Chases Safari Jeep in Manas

GUWAHATI: Tourists embarking on a safari adventure through Assam's scenic Manas National Park had an exhilarating and somewhat harrowing experience on November 5, as they narrowly evaded a charging adult rhinoceros.

The incident unfolded as the safari jeep, carrying a group of tourists from Dhubri, found itself in a pulse-quickening chase with the powerful rhino. The charging animal spurred the vehicle into high-speed motion, racing away from the impending threat. In the midst of the pursuit, the jeep ultimately toppled and crashed.

Incredibly, despite the heart-pounding turn of events, there were no reported injuries among the fortunate tourists, who emerged from the encounter unscathed.

Sources indicate that the incident occurred in the Bashbari Range within the national park, triggering a wave of panic in the vicinity. In light of this nerve-wracking episode, authorities are issuing cautionary advice to tourists, urging them to exercise vigilance and care when approaching the natural habitats of these formidable creatures.

It is a known behavior of rhinoceroses, including those in Assam's wildlife sanctuaries, to exhibit aggression, particularly toward white vehicles. This behavior has led to several similar incidents, highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting the natural behavior of these animals.

A comparable episode involving a charging rhino took place in Kaziranga National Park. Consequently, local authorities have offered guidance to visitors, recommending the use of dark-colored vehicles as a form of camouflage when traversing wildlife habitats. This strategy is aimed at minimizing the chances of provoking or attracting the attention of these majestic yet formidable creatures, ensuring both a thrilling and safe experience for all wildlife enthusiasts.

In a tragic incident, a forest guard in Manas National Park died in a wild buffalo attack inside the protected area. The incident occurred on Sunday near the Bhuyapara forest range of Manas National Park in BTR (Bodoland Territorial Area), when a group of patrolling forest guards was returning home. As per the report, the deceased guard has been identified as Robin Basumatary.

Two other forest guards, identified as Hitesh Medhi and Krishna Boro, were injured in the incident and are currently undergoing treatment at the Salbari Model Hospital. The deceased was working in the Makhibaha camp in Bhuyapara. The incident took place near the Makhibaha River during casual patrolling on Sunday.

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