In a heartwarming and gripping rescue operation, a team of veterinarians and park staff in Thailand saved a baby elephant and its mother who had fallen into a roadside maintenance hole.
The incredible video of the rescue has taken the internet by storm, showcasing the dedication and resourcefulness of the rescuers.
Watch the video at the end.
The incident unfolded during heavy rainfall at the renowned Khao Yai National Park in central Thailand. Armed with various tools, including a boom lift and a digger, the rescue team sprung into action.
The primary concern was first to rescue the calf, achieved using the boom lift. Following this, they carefully sedated the mother elephant to continue the operation.
Tragedy struck when the one-year-old elephant accidentally fell into the drain. Initially, the mother stood guard, but unfortunately, she slipped into the maintenance hole after being sedated. The situation was dire, requiring prompt action to save both elephants.
A remarkable display of teamwork came to the fore as the rescuers utilized a truck-mounted boom lift to carefully lift the mother elephant out of the maintenance hole.
Subsequently, they administered simultaneous cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) while perched atop her.
The dedicated efforts paid off when the mother elephant regained consciousness, and the calf began nursing. The reunited pair was released back into the wild without delay, marking a triumphant return.
The complexity of the rescue operation was evident as it took the team over three hours to ensure the safety of both elephants.
Dr. Chananya Kanchanasarak, the Khao Yai National Park Department vet, described the challenging circumstances, noting the need to administer multiple doses of tranquilizers due to the mother’s protective stance.
Reflecting on the operation’s success, Dr. Kanchanasarak expressed, “It was one of the most memorable rescues we’ve done.”
This daring rescue underscores the commitment of wildlife professionals and their unwavering dedication to preserving the lives of these majestic creatures.
