CHIANG MAI, June 12 (TNA) – Over 30 rescuers and four trained elephants conducted a large-scale drill in Mae Taeng District to prepare for flash floods and evacuate animals. The exercise followed a 2024 flash flood in the Mae Taeng River that killed numerous livestock and elephants.
The drill simulated severe flooding, with rescuers and the “Giant Rescuers” , working to move dogs, cats, cattle, buffalo, pigs, and goats to safety.
Using ropes and specialized equipment, they successfully navigated strong currents. The elephants performed exceptionally, calmly pulling rafts and carrying animals across the river.
These elephants hail from the Saen Family Elephant Camp, a sanctuary established by Phra Khru Aod, a monk from Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan renowned for his elephant conservation efforts.
Phra Khru Aod announced the formation of the “Elephant Rescue Unit” to aid animal rescue in Northern Thailand during crises.
This unit will coordinate with veterinary and volunteer networks, serving as a model for integrating animals into systematic rescue missions. It will also establish a system for caring for injured animals. Future plans include expanding local collaborations for faster, safer disaster response. -819 (TNA)
