Bhubaneswar: The Nandankanan Zoological Park authorities on Monday celebrated World Elephant Day to raise awareness about the conservation and protection of elephants.
To mark the day, the jumbos were treated to a special feast, including sugarcane, bananas, watermelons, and apples among other fruits. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Debidutta Biswal fed the jumbos as part of the celebration. Also, mahouts were felicitated on this occasion.
Despite being a holiday, the authorities marked World Elephant Day with enthusiasm and fanfare, using the occasion to raise awareness about the human-elephant conflict.
PCCF Biswal emphasized the need for coexistence, stating, “Elephants are increasingly entering human settlements, and it’s essential for people to be aware of their presence.”
He highlighted the importance of following guidelines issued by the Forest Department to prevent conflicts.
Biswal stressed that by taking simple precautions, such as not provoking elephants by throwing stones or taking selfies with them, humans can avoid attacks. He urged the public to respect elephants’ space and follow the do’s and don’ts outlined by the Forest Department, which can help mitigate human-animal conflict. The celebration aimed to promote peaceful coexistence with these majestic creatures.
Every year on August 12, World Elephant Day is celebrated to sound the alarm about the dwindling elephant population and the pressing threats they face, including habitat destruction, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
The festivities at Nandankanan Zoological Park were a significant stride towards educating the public and mobilizing support for the conservation of these majestic creatures, ensuring their survival for generations to come.
