Authorities teamed up with locals in Burapahar, Assam, to rescue an elephant that was trapped in a mud pit on August 21.

An excavator was used to help dig out a path for the animal to clamber out of the pit.

In a heartwarming incident, a wild elephant in a national park that had become trapped in mud close to adjoining homesteads was successfully rescued through the joint efforts of park authorities and residents.


The incident occurred in the Burapahar in Kaziranga National Park, Assam, northeast India, on August 21.


The visuals from the spot show an elephant trapped in a muddy pit, growling helplessly as it struggles to climb out. Forest officials soon arrived with a JCB excavator and carefully cleared the mud around the animal, during which the elephant remained calm as if aware it was being helped. Officials then created a slope for it to stand, and with support from the machine on its back, the elephant managed to rise and eventually pull itself out of the hole. Initially seen limping, the elephant later walked swiftly and safely back into the forest.


Speaking to Newslions media, Sonali Ghosh, Director, Kajiranga National Park, Assam, said that Forest officials and local residents swiftly joined hands, deploying an excavator to clear the mud and create a path for the animal. With careful support, the elephant managed to stand and eventually walked back into the forest, safe and unharmed.

The incident not only underscores the importance of timely intervention and community participation in wildlife protection but also serves as a reminder that coexistence between humans and animals is possible when both conservation authorities and locals work hand in hand.