CHIANG MAI, Thailand – Severe flooding has struck Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai province, leaving rescuers and staff struggling to move animals to safety as the site is completely cut off by floodwater and landslides. The park, located in Mae Taeng district, reported that heavy runoff from the Taeng River, a tributary of the overflowing Ping River, has created a critical situation, with all access roads to the area blocked and communication lines down.
With power and telephone signals cut, the park has been unable to coordinate rescue efforts effectively. Staff and volunteers have been working tirelessly since Thursday (Oct 3) to relocate animals, including elephants, cows, and water buffalo, to higher ground. However, some animals have been swept away by the current, prompting the park to issue calls for help from anyone spotting animals outside the park’s perimeter.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on has instructed officials to mobilize emergency teams in Chiang Mai to support rescue operations. The Chiang Mai Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office has since provided boats to aid in reaching the stranded animals and staff.
Elephant Nature Park, known for its work in rescuing and rehabilitating elephants, is home to 125 elephants and numerous other animals, including cats, pigs, and birds. Floodwaters in some parts of the sanctuary have reportedly reached depths of up to five meters, submerging entire buildings and complicating rescue efforts. Staffs remain on high alert as they attempt to move as many animals as possible to safer areas. (NNT)
