Jaldapara National Park officials rescue orphaned elephant calf

MP | 13 Aug 2023 | Alipurduar: The Jaldapara National Park is on track in establishing a groundbreaking precedent in rescuing and safeguarding wildlife from the brink of certain demise. 

After nearly two and a half months of persistent efforts, the young elephant calf rescued from Dalmore Tea Garden has turned out all healthy and hearty, under the dedicated care of skilled mahouts and the park’s veterinarians. 

This orphaned calf, bereft of a mother, has not only shown progress in consuming milk but has also started eating solid food. The calf has been named ‘Gajraj’ by Deepak M, former DFO of Jaldapara National Park. 

The mahouts of the renowned Halong Pilkhana in Jaldapara are currently engaged in nurturing the calf. As recounted by forest officials, a fully-grown female elephant tragically succumbed to electrocution in Khairbari, Madarihat of Alipurduar, on May 27. 

On that night, a group of wild elephants ventured from the jungle into Keranipara, a betel nut garden. A high-tension electrical transmission line belonging to the state electricity board hung above this garden. 

As the elephants moved around, one tree came in contact with the overhead high-tension line, bursting into flames and an adult female elephant came into contact with the electrified tree, leading to her demise. 

The calf of that elephant became separated from its herd and eventually found its way to Birpara’s Dalmore Tea Garden. This four-month-old calf found refuge at Hollong Central Philkhana, Jaldapara National Park. The team from the Jalpaiguri Forest department rescued the calf from Dolmor Tea Garden and entrusted its care to Hollong Central Philkhana. 

The veterinary team and mahouts at Jaldapara are tending to the calf. The calf is consuming milk and milk powder. 

There have also been instances of the calf attempting to chew grass. Navojit Dey, ADFO of Jaldapara National Park, said: “Barring unforeseen complications, Gajraj will survive in Hollong. Our initial concerns have abated as his physical condition is now quite normal. His eating habits are also on track.” 

The current count of Kunki elephants in Jaldapara National Park is 86, with the newest addition being Gajraj. Accompanying him are six other elephant calves, including four orphans. 

Courtesy & source- Millennium Post

https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/jaldapara-national-park-officials-rescue-orphaned-elephant-calf-529167