10-10-2024 (BANGKOK) Thailand has been grappling with severe flooding across 20 provinces, with the northern region bearing the brunt of the disaster. The deluge has affected over 8,625 households, causing widespread damage and displacement. In Chiang Mai, one of the worst-hit areas, the flooding has not only submerged night markets and hotels but has also tragically impacted an elephant sanctuary, resulting in the deaths of two rescued female elephants.
The floods have led to bizarre and unsettling incidents. In one peculiar case, as floodwaters receded in Chiang Mai’s Tha Sala district, residents were shocked to discover a brown coffin washed up beneath a tree near Montfort College Secondary School. The eerie sight prompted locals to share images on social media, hoping to locate the owner. Chiang Mai Governor Asanee Buranupakorn swiftly responded, dispatching officials to investigate. Upon examination, it was determined that the coffin was empty and unused. Authorities have since removed it to Nong Pratheep Cemetery, issuing a public notice for the rightful owner to claim it.
Meanwhile, the elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai faced a heart-wrenching tragedy. Two rescued female elephants, Faa Sai and Ploy Thong, tragically drowned when floodwaters reached a staggering height of three metres. Sanctuary staff struggled valiantly to evacuate the animals, using ropes to mark safe paths. However, their efforts were hampered by blocked roads, strong currents, and poor communication signals.
Ploy Thong, a blind elephant rescued in 2018 from a riding camp in Pattaya, had previously worked in the logging industry. During the evacuation, she became separated from her herd and was swept away by the raging waters. Faa Sai, rescued in November 2007, had a history of aggressive behaviour due to past mistreatment. She was last seen near the riverbank before being carried away by the flood.
The disaster necessitated the evacuation of over a hundred elephants, along with numerous other animals including buffaloes, pigs, dogs, cats, and rabbits. The flooding has also caused extensive damage to infrastructure, uprooting trees and sweeping away vehicles. Tragically, there have been reports of electrocution fatalities.
The severity of the flooding is underscored by the Ping River in Chiang Mai reaching a 50-year high of 5.3 metres last Saturday.
