A wild female elephant that was critically injured after falling about 200 feet from a hill in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, has died despite prolonged treatment by forest officials, the Elephant Response Team (ERT) and veterinary experts.
The elephant died at around 10:00 am on Sunday.
Confirming the matter to Cox’s Bazar Life, Abdullah Al Mamun, divisional forest officer (DFO) of the Cox’s Bazar South Forest Division, said the animal had sustained devastating injuries in the fall.
“The elephant fell from a hill about 200 feet high. Its spine was broken, and it also suffered severe abdominal injuries. Despite the best efforts of the Forest Department, the Livestock Department and specialist veterinarians, we could not save it,” he said.
The accident occurred at around 3:00pm on Saturday in Ward No. 1 of Naityangpara, under Teknaf municipality.
According to the Forest Department, the elephant was feeding on foliage when its footing gave way on rain-softened ground, causing it to plunge about 200 feet down the hillside. The animal suffered critical injuries and was unable to stand. Local residents alerted the Forest Department after witnessing the incident.
Forest officials, accompanied by veterinarians from the Teknaf Upazila Livestock Veterinary Hospital, rushed to the scene and began emergency treatment. Later, an Elephant Response Team led by wildlife veterinarian Dr Mostafiz, together with officials from the Upazila Livestock Department, continued intensive treatment at the site.
Forest officials said the elephant was about 40 years old. The fall left it with a broken spine and fractures in both hind legs, rendering it completely unable to stand.
After being informed of the incident, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman directed the authorities to ensure the highest possible level of treatment for the injured elephant.
Despite the combined efforts of the Forest Department, the ERT and veterinary teams, the elephant succumbed to its injuries on Sunday morning.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Courtesy
