A 53-year-old domesticated elephant that was swept away by floodwaters from the Nagaland hills into Assam has been rescued and is being treated, Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah said on Saturday.
The elephant was carried by the Dikhow River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra, and later rescued in Assam as the state continued to face a severe flood situation. The minister said the rescue showed the efforts of frontline personnel and the importance of timely care for both people and animals during emergencies.
According to Baruah, the elephant was swept away from Namsang in Nagaland and washed ashore at Bihubor in Assam’s Sivasagar district. It was safely rescued on Friday and given veterinary care. Following the rescue, the elephant made its way safely to Balighat in Simaluguri, where it is now resting under the supervision of the authorities.
A veterinary team from the Nazira Veterinary Dispensary, with support from the Nazira Mobile Veterinary Unit, reached the site and carried out a full health examination before providing immediate treatment. Veterinary experts have said the elephant will remain under continuous observation to ensure a full recovery from the physical stress caused by the flood.
“As we continue to strengthen disaster response and animal welfare, our focus remains on ensuring that every life — human or animal — receives timely care during emergencies,” Baruah said. He added, “Every monsoon presents immense challenges for both people and animals across the Northeast. Timely rescue operations, professional veterinary care and coordinated efforts by government agencies play a crucial role in reducing the impact of natural disasters on vulnerable wildlife and domesticated animals, reflecting Assam’s growing capacity for compassionate and effective disaster management.”
The minister said the state government’s vision was to build an Assam where disaster resilience goes hand-in-hand with compassion for all living beings. “Every successful rescue strengthens our commitment to protecting the state’s rich natural heritage while reaffirming that humanity is at its best when it extends care to those who cannot speak for themselves,” he said. The flood situation in Assam remained grim on Saturday, although water levels had started to recede in some places. Officials said 61 people had died in the floods and more than 7.05 lakh people were affected across nine districts.
– Ends
With inputs from PTI
Published By:
India Today Web Desk
Published On:
Jul 25, 2026 21:14 IST
