After three elephants ran out of control during the 148th Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad, a rapid response team from Vantara was deployed to assist city authorities.
The wildlife rescue and care centre based in Jamnagar, led by Anant Ambani, sent a team of two veterinarians, six senior mahouts, 11 trained support staff, and five fully equipped elephant ambulances.
Startled by Noise
The chaos began when a bull elephant, startled by loud music and a noisy crowd, broke formation and bolted. Two more elephants followed in panic, briefly creating confusion during the religious procession. Thankfully, there were no human injuries, but the incident raised serious safety concerns.
Vantara’s experts helped assess the physical and mental condition of the elephants and worked with local authorities to safely contain and relocate them.
“After the incident, we immediately contacted Vantara. Their team responded quickly and coordinated with local officials to ensure proper care and relocation of the elephants,” said Dr K Ramesh, Chief Conservator of Forests, Gujarat.
Praising the quick support, Mahendra Jha, trustee of the Shree Jagannath Mandir Trust, said, “Vantara’s prompt action and dedication ensured the elephants got the treatment and care they needed.”
Vantara, spread over 998 acres, is home to over 260 rescued elephants and is recognized as the world’s largest elephant care facility.