Guwahati: Large parts of Kaziranga National Park in Assam have been inundated by the annual floods in the past few days, impacting both wildlife and local communities. While essential for the ecosystem’s health, the floods have resulted in many wildlife species being adversely affected, with some swept away by rising water levels. As these animals seek refuge on higher grounds, they frequently encounter conflicts with human settlements, leading to injuries and fatalities.
In response to this crisis, the Assam Forest Department, in collaboration with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), has embarked on a mission to rescue displaced or injured animals and prevent human-wildlife conflicts. Local NGOs and volunteers from nearby villages have also joined the rescue teams to aid in flood relief efforts. The teams are working to rescue stranded animals, provide medical assistance where necessary, and facilitate their return to natural habitats once floodwaters recede.
The Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC), managed by the Assam Forest Department in collaboration with IFAW-WTI, has played a pivotal role in this effort. In the past two days alone, over 36 animals have been admitted to CWRC due to injuries or displacement, including otter pups, barred owls, sambar deer, and several hog deer.
Dr. Sonali Ghosh, IFS, Field Director of Kaziranga National Park, said, “Kaziranga National Park is well-prepared for the flood season with comprehensive measures in place to ensure the safety of wildlife and staff. Our frontline teams are well-trained and equipped to handle any situation, supported by ongoing capacity-building efforts. Additionally, rescue teams and veterinary care units are on standby for swift emergency response. Traffic movement is also being controlled along the national highway to prevent road accidents and allow safe passage for wildlife. We hope that our approach in Assam can serve as a model for other states.”
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Dr. Bhaskar Choudhury, CWRC Centre Manager and lead veterinarian at WTI, added, “Three Mobile Veterinary Service Units have been stationed at the Eastern range under the Bishwanath Wildlife Division on the north bank, the western range Baguri, and one at CWRC to address the needs of distressed wildlife in the Kaziranga landscape. Critical cases have been handled in temporary base stations created in the three stations to avoid unnecessary transport to CWRC. All stations are equipped with medicines, surgical supplies, oxygen therapy, patient monitors, and more to provide the best possible care for flood-rescued animals and give them a second chance of returning to the wild.”
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