Report Elephants and Rescuers Team Up in Mae Taeng for Flood Preparedness Drill

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Picture courtesy of TNA

 

In a proactive move to ensure readiness for future natural disasters, over 30 rescuers and four skilled elephants participated in a large-scale drill in Mae Taeng District. This exercise aimed to simulate flash flood conditions and devise effective strategies for evacuating animals, following the tragic flash flood of 2024 that claimed the lives of numerous livestock and elephants along the Mae Taeng River.

 

The drill involved the coordinated efforts of rescuers and "Giant Rescuers," focusing on safely relocating dogs, cats, cattle, buffalo, pigs, and goats under severe flooding scenarios. Equipped with ropes and specialised gear, the team managed to navigate strong currents successfully, highlighting the feasibility of such operations in real situations. Remarkably, the trained elephants played a crucial role, demonstrating their capability by calmly pulling rafts and carrying animals across the river.

 

These elephants belong to the Saen Family Elephant Camp, a sanctuary founded by Phra Khru Aod, a monk from Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan who is well-known for his dedication to elephant conservation. Building on this effort, Phra Khru Aod announced the establishment of the "Elephant Rescue Unit," designed to support animal rescue operations throughout Northern Thailand during emergencies.

 

The unit aims to collaborate closely with veterinary services and volunteer networks, offering a pioneering model for integrating animals into organised rescue missions. Additionally, it plans to develop a care system for injured animals, ensuring comprehensive support during crises. Moving forward, the initiative seeks to expand local partnerships, enhancing capabilities for quicker and safer disaster response.

 

Through this innovative approach, Phra Khru Aod and his team are not only improving disaster preparedness but also showcasing a harmonious collaboration between humans and animals, setting a precedent for future rescue operations.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from TNA 2025-06-12