Bahraich: Five wild elephants, including three adults and two calves, were safely rescued after they were trapped in the strong currents of Kaudiyala river in Bahraich on Tuesday.According to officials at Katarniaghat wildlife division, the forest department received a wireless message through Kailashpuri Barrier at 10.20 am on Aug 25 that the elephant herd was being swept downstream towards Girjapuri Barrage due to strong river current.The situation was particularly dangerous for the two young calves, who were struggling to withstand the force of the water.The range officer of Katarniaghat, accompanied by a team of forest personnel, reached Girjapuri Barrage to carry out a rescue operation.At the request of officials, irrigation department closed the barrage gates, significantly reducing the intensity of the current. This gave the elephants an opportunity to protect the calves and move towards safer location.Forest department personnel conducted a ‘hanka’ operation, using coordinated sounds and calls to guide the elephants away from the barrage.
