Guwahati, 22 July (HS): The flood situation in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park, has turned increasingly critical as the rising waters of the Brahmaputra continue to inundate vast stretches of the park. Eight forest camps have already been submerged due to the swelling floodwaters.

Continuous rainfall over the past few days and the rising water levels in rivers and tributaries have led to a rapid increase in flooding inside the park. Despite the submergence of forest camps, frontline forest personnel are continuing patrolling operations from within the flooded areas.

As water levels rise, wild animals including elephants, one-horned rhinoceroses and deer have begun moving towards the higher grounds of the Karbi Anglong hills in search of safety. To facilitate their safe migration, the park authorities have erected barricades along designated wildlife corridors connected to National Highway 715.

Vehicular movement on the highway has also been regulated to ensure the safe passage of animals attempting to cross the road. Motorists have been advised to drive slowly and remain alert. Meanwhile, the Forest Department has intensified anti-poaching surveillance by deploying boat patrols and maintaining strict vigilance across the flood-affected areas.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash