Assam floods: Situation worsens in Kaziranga National Park, hog deers die
KAZIRANGA: The flood situation at the Kaziranga National Park in Assam has reached a critical state, with four hog deers reported dead and 167 forest camps submerged as of Tuesday (July 02) afternoon.
Authorities at the Kaziranga National Park in Assam have thus far rescued 24 animals and evacuated eight forest camps in response to the rising water levels.
Kaziranga, renowned for its diverse wildlife, is now grappling with significant challenges as floodwaters continue to rise, reaching up to five feet in some areas.
Out of total 233 forest camps at Kaziranga National Park in Assam, 167 are currently under deluge.
In response to the flooding, many of the park’s animals, including elephants and rhinos, are migrating to safer areas through designated corridors.
The highlands within the park have become temporary refuges for many animals, including rhinos and deer, during this second wave of floods this season.
Also read: Assam: Traffic restrictions imposed as flood waters enter Kaziranga National Park
Most parts of the UNESCO World Heritage Site are now underwater.
The Kaziranga National Park in Assam, home to the largest populations of one-horned rhinos, swamp deer, water buffalo, and Asiatic elephants, has seen its inhabitants flee the surging waters, often crossing the busy NH37 to reach the hills on the opposite side.
Park authorities report that all 34 camps in the Agratoli range, 48 in the Kaziranga range, 29 in the Bagori range, 13 in the Burhapahar range, 7 in the Bokakhat range, 22 in the Biswanath Wildlife Division, and 14 in the Nagaon Wildlife Division have been affected.
A wooden bridge near the Moshguli Camp in the Agratoli Range was washed away by floodwaters.
Herds of elephants have begun moving towards Karbi Anglong through the Hati Dandi corridor of the Kaziranga.
To ensure their safe passage, heavy traffic diversions have been requested on the NH 715 stretch under the Nagaon and Golaghat districts of Assam.
Additionally, Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) has been issued to prevent any human-wildlife conflict.
Rescue teams and veterinary care units are on standby for immediate deployment.
Boats, rescue materials, and medicines have been strategically positioned in key areas, with country boats, speedboats, and mechanized boats ready for swift response.