Wild Buffalo Rescued From Varahi Canal Near Udupi Village

Udupi ;A large wild buffalo was successfully rescued after falling into a canal near a temple in Udupi district, in an operation carried out jointly by the forest department and local residents. The incident occurred near the Asodu Sri Kumar Mahalingeshwara Temple in the Kalavara gram panchayat limits of Kundapur taluk.

According to officials, the animal had strayed out of the forest, likely in search of food or water, and accidentally fell into the Varahi canal on Friday afternoon. It remained trapped inside the canal for nearly 20 hours, struggling to find a way out and becoming increasingly distressed.

Upon receiving information, forest officials rushed to the spot and began planning a rescue operation. Since the canal had steep walls, it was initially difficult for the animal to climb out. To address this, teams started filling mud inside the canal to create a gradual slope that would allow the buffalo to move upward.

The operation continued through the night, with officials closely monitoring the animal’s condition. By Saturday morning, additional soil was added to strengthen the slope. A JCB machine was then deployed, and ropes were used to carefully guide and lift the buffalo out of the canal.

The rescue was carried out with caution to ensure the safety of both the animal and the rescuers. After being brought to safety, the buffalo was released back into a suitable habitat.

Local resident Sunil, who alerted authorities, said the animal appeared frightened and exhausted after spending an entire night in the canal. He appreciated the prompt response of the forest department and the cooperation of villagers in saving the animal’s life.

The operation drew attention from locals, with many gathering at the site to witness the rescue efforts. Authorities also ensured safety measures were in place to prevent any untoward incidents during the operation.

In a similar recent incident in Dakshina Kannada district, a wild elephant that had fallen into a well was rescued using heavy machinery and coordinated efforts by forest officials and emergency teams.

Such incidents highlight increasing human-wildlife interaction as animals venture into human settlements in search of resources. Forest officials have urged residents to promptly report such cases to ensure timely rescue and safety of wildlife.