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National
Elephant wanders to Tamil Nadu dam for water, gets stuck in slush amid forest drought
✍️ The Economic Times
🗓 12 Oct 2026, 04:02 PM
👁 16
A thirsty elephant entered a dam in Tamil Nadu seeking water and became trapped in the icy slush as forest water sources dried up, officials said.
Forest officials reported that a lone elephant, driven by severe water scarcity in the surrounding Tamil Nadu forests, made its way to a nearby dam early Monday. The animal was seen attempting to drink from the reservoir when a sudden drop in temperature turned the water’s edge into a thick slush.
Witnesses said the elephant slipped and became immobilised in the icy mixture, prompting forest department teams to rush to the scene. Rescue crews deployed ropes and tranquilisers to calm the animal and prevent injury, while local residents gathered to watch the unfolding rescue.
Authorities highlighted the broader impact of prolonged drought on wildlife, noting that shrinking water bodies are forcing animals to venture closer to human settlements. The department has urged the public to avoid approaching the trapped elephant and to report any further wildlife distress promptly.
The incident underscores the urgent need for water management strategies in Tamil Nadu’s forested regions, as climate variability continues to strain both human and animal populations.
Witnesses said the elephant slipped and became immobilised in the icy mixture, prompting forest department teams to rush to the scene. Rescue crews deployed ropes and tranquilisers to calm the animal and prevent injury, while local residents gathered to watch the unfolding rescue.
Authorities highlighted the broader impact of prolonged drought on wildlife, noting that shrinking water bodies are forcing animals to venture closer to human settlements. The department has urged the public to avoid approaching the trapped elephant and to report any further wildlife distress promptly.
The incident underscores the urgent need for water management strategies in Tamil Nadu’s forested regions, as climate variability continues to strain both human and animal populations.