KAZIRANGA : Severe flooding in renowned Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) in Assam has resulted in the death of 174 wild animals, including 10 endangered one-horned rhinos.

Notably, despite the gradual recession of floodwaters, 50% of the park remains submerged.  In addition to the rhinos, the casualties included 144 hog deer and two sambar.

Assam forest personnel have rescued 135 animals, of which 116 have been released post-treatment.Seven animals are still receiving medical care. The park’s flooding has inundated 46 out of 233 forest camps.

This year marks the highest flood levels recorded at the Kaziranga National Park in Assam in the last decade, based on data from the Central Water Commission (CWC).

Past years such as 2018, 2021, 2022, and 2023 experienced minimal to no flooding.  Kaziranga’s recent high floods began on July 01, with the Brahmaputra River reaching a level of 87.47 meters.

Comparative levels in previous years were 87.35 meters in 2020, 87.13 meters in 2019, and 87.27 meters in 2017. Rhino deaths due to flooding were 24 in 2017, 21 in 2019, and 19 in 2020.

For wildlife protection, Assam forest officials and security personnel stationed within the park conduct regular patrols.

Vehicular movement on National Highway 37 has been restricted to protect animals migrating to higher ground. Boat patrols have also been intensified to ensure the safety of the wildlife.

At the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in central Assam, rising water levels have flooded 90% of the area.  A forest official indicated that although the water had been receding, it began rising again, leaving all but the headquarters camp submerged.

There have been no reported casualties, but prolonged flooding could lead to a food shortage for the animals.  Boat patrolling has been ramped up for rescue operations and security.

 In Orang National Park, floodwaters destroyed the Ramkong Watch Tower and damaged the Baghbari AP and Kathgorah AP camps. Ten out of 49 forest camps remain flooded.

The flooding has resulted in the drowning deaths of four animals, with 16 others rescued by forest officials.