Tragedy strikes Kaziranga: Floods claim the lives of humans and rhinos alike
The eastern part of India is facing a difficult situation. Since the end of May, due to heavy rains and landslides, more than 80 people have died in this region. Not only humans are victims; over 150 animals have also perished due to floods in one of the national parks.
3:01 PM EDT, July 10, 2024
Nearly one-third of the surface area of Kaziranga National Park, located in the state of Assam in northeastern India, has been flooded.
Tragedy in the national park
This national park is home to almost half of the world's population of Indian rhinos, which numbers around four thousand individuals.
"Safety of Animals" our topmost priority. Area domination to secure safety of animals in fringe areas of @kaziranga_, reads a post published on the X platform by the Nagaon police, who assisted the park authorities. Although Kaziranga's staff constantly monitored the movement of animal herds to higher ground, the tragedy could not be avoided.
Local media reported that 9 Indian rhinos died due to the flooding. In total, over 150 animals lost their lives.
Difficult situation in India
Since the end of May, more than 80 people have died in this region of India due to heavy rains and landslides. Moreover, over 300,000 people had to be evacuated from flooded homes.
India's Meteorological Department reported on Wednesday, July 10, that heavy rainfall is expected in the country's northern, eastern, and northeastern parts over the next two to three days, which may worsen the situation even further.
In northeastern India, floods and mudslides frequently occur during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. According to experts in Delhi, climate change, causing more intense rains and floods, is especially dangerous for the state of Assam, reminds the Associated Press.
