Left paralysed after a train accident, baby elephant is now walking short distances
A baby elephant hit by a speeding train in northern India has completed her one year of recovery, showing miraculous results.
Named Bani, the nine-month-old elephant was hit by a speeding train in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand. The elephant was thrown off the tracks, and landed with grievous injuries in an adjacent field.
The elephant was paralysed and brought in for treatment at India’s first elephant hospital in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh.
After being provided with critical care by veterinarians, Bani has shown remarkable recovery and just celebrated her one-year anniversary since her rescue, according to her caregivers.
Following several weeks of oil massages and visits to the hydrotherapy pool, Bani was finally able to stand up in February 2024.
When she started walking, her videos of playing with water and grabbing a snack were widely shared.
She has now progressed to be able to walk short distances and explore the greenery around her.
“It is both heartwarming and emotional to witness Bani marking her first rescue anniversary with us,” said Debbie Haynes, Manager of UK Wildlife SOS, said. The organisation is engaged in Bani’s recovery efforts.
“A year ago, she arrived as a severely injured calf, her condition critical. However, our team left no stone unturned and ensured that she received the care needed to regain her strength and take confident steps once again.”
However, Bani has an abnormal gait that limits the distances she is able to walk. She is also currently wearing shoes on her hind legs to protect her feet.