Elephant calf falls into 20-foot well in Karnataka; rescue underway

Officials said that despite the fall, the animal appeared healthy and alert, raising hopes of a safe rescue, officials added.

Mangaluru, Karnataka: An elephant calf that fell into an abandoned 20-foot-deep well in Dakshina Kannada district was found to be in stable condition, officials said on Monday.

The incident occurred in the Sampaje range of Sullia taluk in the Western Ghats, they said.

Despite the fall, the animal appeared healthy and alert, raising hopes of a safe rescue, officials added.

A 10-member team of forest personnel, led by the range forest officer of Sampaje, has been engaged in the rescue operation since early morning.

According to Manjunath, the range forest officer, officials are keeping the animal hydrated by sprinkling water into the well.

Two excavators have been deployed to dig around the well and create a gradual earthen ramp to facilitate the elephant’s exit.

Officials said the rescue efforts were progressing steadily and expressed confidence that the animal would be brought out safely without injury.