Forest officials rescue rhino stuck in drain in Kaziranga

Forest officials in Rangajan area of Assam rescued a one-horned baby rhino stuck inside a drain on Saturday.

With incessant rain and floods forcing the wildlife out of Kaziranga National Park, the Rhino was rescued after efforts lasting over five hours.

The 3.5-year-old rhino reportedly strayed away from the Kaziranga National Park as massive floods hit the province. It reached a human inhabited region, looking for shelter, when it got stuck in the drain.

Forest authorities rushed to the spot after locals alerted them.

The rhino was finally rescued after five hours of operations during the night. However, it sustained injuries on its back.

Deputy Commissioner, Golaghat, Barnali Deka, said the rhino has returned to its habitat.

"The rhino has been stuck since long. The 3.5-year-old has also been badly injured. He has been finally rescued and returned to his habitat. We are very happy. It is a good feeling of satisfaction," said Deka.

Regular floods in Assam kill several animals in Kaziranga every year. Many animals drown, while others are hit by vehicles as they stray away from the sanctuary in search of safe havens.