The HEAL team, in collaboration with the Forest Department, has successfully rescued several wildlife species caught in the recent unprecedented floods in North Bengal.

The severe flood situation was triggered by heavy rainfall coupled with a release of excess water from Tala Dam in Bhutan. This caused the Teesta and Torsa Rivers to surge dangerously, flowing above the red-alert danger mark and affecting both human and wildlife populations across multiple areas.

Swiftly mobilizing, the HEAL team and forest officials launched immediate rescue operations.

Among the wildlife successfully brought to safety were:
– One-horned rhinos
– Non-venomous snakes (common wolf snake and copper headed trinket)
– Two sambar deer

Case in point: The One-Horned Rhino in Khatalbari village
A dramatic incident saw a one-horned rhino carried downstream into the Khatalbari and Pundibari areas by the floodwaters. HEAL team members – Ardhendu, Sanjib, and Roky – reached the area immediately with drones and other rescue equipment. Working tirelessly with forest officials, the team safely rescued the rhino and successfully released it back into Jaldapara National Park.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our district coordinator Ardhendu Banik and the entire on-site HEAL team for their dedication in ensuring the safe passage of the stranded wildlife. We are also immensely thankful for the invaluable on-ground support from local people and civil society members, whose assistance was crucial to the success of these operations.