Assam: Kaziranga elephant dies after safari duty, sparks calls to end tourist rides

Guwahati: The tragic death of Swarnimoyee, a 50-year-old privately owned female elephant used for tourist safaris, has reignited urgent appeals from netizens, wildlife activists, and animal lovers to permanently halt elephant rides in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve.

"It is truly painful how humans torture animals for their convenience… Animals also have equal rights to this world," one wrote.

"I don’t know why anyone would find joy in causing suffering to a living being… If needed, I’ll walk instead," he added.

Swarnimoyee collapsed twice on December 11 after completing morning safari duties in the Bagori range, succumbing hours later despite veterinary intervention.

Preliminary reports suggest possible exhaustion or an internal ailment.

While park authorities maintain that safari elephants are limited to regulated hours and appeared healthy beforehand, critics argue the incident exposes deeper welfare issues in using captive Asian elephants—an endangered species—for tourism.

Domesticated through often harsh methods, these animals endure physical strain from carrying tourists, restricted movement, and psychological stress, contrasting sharply with the freedom of wild elephants in the park.

Social media reactions have been swift and emotional, highlighting a long-pending debate on ethical tourism. Users in Assamese and English decried human convenience overriding animal rights.

Journalists and activists question the adequacy of safeguards against overexertion, claiming authorities often prioritize tourist numbers over animal health.

Kaziranga, a UNESCO site famed for rhinos and biodiversity, depends on tourism, including rides by about 45 privately owned elephants.

Yet alternatives, like jeep safaris, allow excellent viewing without direct exploitation. Conservationists urge evolving practices to protect all inhabitants, noting that captive use undermines the park's legacy. In contrast, wild elephants embody true freedom.

As investigations continue, this incident underscores a critical juncture: Kaziranga must shift toward non-invasive, ethical tourism to safeguard elephant health, freedom, and dignity, ensuring conservation benefits the majestic creatures it celebrates—not at their expense.