In New Delhi’s groundbreaking elephant hospital, a collaborative effort by medical professionals is underway to aid a young elephant’s recovery from injuries sustained in a train accident.
Dubbed Bani, the 9-month-old elephant faced a tragic ordeal when struck by a high-speed train near Corbett National Park, resulting in severe injuries and paralysis. Tragically, Bani’s pregnant mother also perished in the incident.
Initially treated for hip and spine injuries locally, Bani’s condition saw no improvement over a month.
In a bid for specialized care, she was transferred to Mathura, home to India’s inaugural veterinary hospital exclusively for elephants, managed by Wildlife SOS.
While some progress has been noted, identifying all fractures remains challenging for the medical team.
Dr. A. Sha Arun, a senior veterinarian at the Wildlife SOS center, highlighted the difficulty in pinpointing fractures due to the bulky nature of the hip regions.
Despite sustaining multiple wounds, including on her back and groin, Bani’s gradual healing is evident.
Positive indicators such as tail movement and normal bodily functions signal a promising response to treatment.
Though Bani has regained the use of her front legs, challenges persist with her hind legs. With ongoing treatment, Dr. Arun anticipates that it will take up to three months for her mobility to recover fully.
Given elephants’ emotional complexity, veterinarians suspect the psychological impact of her mother’s tragic demise may influence Bani’s physical recovery. However, signs of playfulness and a hearty appetite offer hope for her rehabilitation.
Despite the hurdles, Bani’s journey embodies resilience, teamwork, and the unwavering dedication of caregivers, fostering optimism for her eventual return to total health.