Assam floods: 70 per cent of Orang National Park submerged, wildlife under threat

The surge in water levels of the Dhanashree and Brahmaputra river has led to a critical situation in Orang National Park, Assam. Approximately 70 per cent of the park is now underwater due to the flooding.

The deluge from these rivers, particularly the Brahmaputra and Dhanashree, as well as the River Pasnai, has inundated the southern part of the park, creating a dire environment for both wildlife and park personnel.

Out of the 50 camps situated within the park, 20 have been submerged. Notably, the Khayarasali and Balicamp areas are experiencing water levels as high as seven to fifteen feet.

Foresters are facing immense challenges as they strive to protect the park's inhabitants, including the endangered one-horned rhinos, from the dual threats of rising waters and poachers. The adverse conditions have made patrolling and safeguarding the wildlife increasingly difficult.

The sudden rise in the Dhanashree River's water level since yesterday has exacerbated the situation, particularly affecting several camps on the park's eastern side. The flooding has led to a significant increase in water levels across 20 of the park's camps.

As the park battles these severe floods, authorities are calling for urgent measures to ensure the safety of both the animals and the forest staff.

Also read: Assam's Kaziranga National Park faces severe flooding, 95 out of 233 forest camps submerged