Sak Surin, a cherished Thai elephant, was one of three elephants gifted to Sri Lanka as a symbol of friendship between the two nations in 2001. As this ageing and ailing elephant prepares for a journey back home to Thailand, a highly skilled team of veterinarians and experts are scheduled to visit Sri Lanka next month to ensure his well-being and readiness for the trip. The team, set to visit from June 6-9, will be focusing on the health and safety aspects of Sak Surin’s departure and ultimate reunion with Thailand.
Jatuporn Burutphat, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, revealed that the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) will be tackling several matters, including the necessary paperwork to ensure full compliance with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Moreover, they plan to construct a specialized enclosure designed to transport Sak Surin safely and comfortably. The journey will see the elephant flown back to Thailand on an Ilyushin IL-76 aircraft, departing from Colombo and arriving at Chiang Mai airport. From there, he will be transported to an elephant hospital in Lampang.
The decision to bring Sak Surin back home to Thailand was spurred by concerns raised by the Sri Lanka-based animal rights organization, Rally for Animal Rights and Environment (RARE). They reported that this beloved elephant had experienced mistreatment by its handlers and had been moved through various locations since being gifted to Sri Lanka. RARE shared that Sak Surin’s limbs had been confined with chains resulting in widespread injuries across his body.
Now, with all eyes on this precious elephant and efforts focused on returning him to his homeland, the Thai people eagerly await his arrival where he can receive the medical care and rehabilitation needed. The dedication and support for Sak Surin’s journey serve as a testament to the importance of wildlife conservation and maintaining the bonds of friendship between nations. May Sak Surin’s upcoming journey and treatment pave the way for a brighter and more compassionate future for these magnificent creatures.
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