Assam: Rhino charges at tourist vehicle in Manas National Park, incident goes viral

In a recurring incident, a massive rhinoceros charged at a tourist vehicle today in the Kanchanbari connecting road within the Bamboo Grove forest area of Manas National Park. This marks the second such encounter in just two days, raising concerns about tourist safety in the region.

The incident occurred during the morning safari when a group of tourists was passing through the Bamboo Grove area, a part of the park known for its rich wildlife. As the tourist jeep made its way through the dense foliage, the rhino, which had been grazing nearby, suddenly charged towards the vehicle. The driver managed to steer clear, avoiding any direct impact, but the tourists were left shaken.

A video of the incident, captured by one of the tourists, quickly went viral on social media. The footage shows the rhino emerging from the bush and rapidly approaching the vehicle, showcasing the animal's sheer size and speed. While no injuries were reported, the video has reignited debates about the safety measures in place for tourists visiting the park.

This is not the first time this particular rhino has shown aggressive behaviour. Just two days ago, the same rhino charged at another tourist vehicle in a similar manner. In that incident, the driver managed to reverse the jeep swiftly, narrowly avoiding a dangerous situation. Park authorities have since been monitoring the rhino’s movements closely but have not yet intervened.

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Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. While such encounters are rare, they highlight the inherent risks involved in wildlife tourism. According to park officials, the sudden aggression displayed by the rhino could be due to territorial instincts or the presence of tourists too close to its comfort zone.

Dr. Hemanta Choudhury, a wildlife expert and former park official, explained, "Rhinos are generally solitary animals, and any perceived intrusion into their territory can provoke them. This is particularly true during the mating season or if they feel threatened. While the charges are alarming, they are typically warning displays rather than attacks."

The park authorities have reassured the public that they are working to ensure tourist safety while preserving the park's natural environment. "We are reviewing the incident and have increased patrols in the affected areas. We urge tourists to follow the guidelines issued by the park, maintain safe distances from animals, and avoid loud noises that could startle wildlife," said park director Rajiv Kalita.

Despite the close call, tourist visits to Manas National Park remain high, especially during the current peak season. Authorities are advising caution and reminding visitors of the importance of following the park's safety protocols to avoid any future incidents.

For now, the rhino remains under observation, and park officials are considering additional measures to prevent further encounters between the animals and tourists. No decision has been made on whether the rhino will be relocated or if other steps will be taken to manage its behaviour.