Close call: Buffalo rescued from deep well in Chon Buri (video)
A dramatic rescue unfolded yesterday when villagers banded together to save a buffalo named Mam, who had fallen into a deep well in Chon Buri province. The incident drew significant attention as the distressed animal, weighing over 500 kilogrammes, found itself trapped 7 metres below ground.
The emergency unfolded at around 6.30pm, yesterday, December 10, when the Sawang Het Ban Thung Hiang Rescue Centre received a frantic call from Kamonwan Rongwang, a 58 year old resident of Nawanghai subdistrict.
Kamonwan reported that her male buffalo had accidentally wandered from its herd and plunged into an old, dry artesian well. Responding swiftly, the rescue team mobilised to assist with the urgent situation.
Upon arriving at the scene in the Nawanghai subdistrict, Phanat Nikhom district, rescuers found Kamonwan anxiously awaiting their help. She led them to the location where Mam had fallen.
The well, with a diameter of 1.2 metres, was perilously deep, and its opening was level with the ground, a hidden trap for unsuspecting animals. Inside, Mam, a four year old buffalo, stood visibly frightened and agitated, unable to escape on his own.
The rescue operation proved to be challenging. The team requested a crane-equipped truck and a water truck from the Nawanghai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation. Their plan involved filling the well with water to help Mam float upwards, making it easier to hoist him out. However, the buffalo’s considerable size and state of panic complicated the efforts.
Despite these difficulties, the rescue team persevered. After more than 30 minutes of careful manoeuvring, they successfully lifted Mam out of the well.
The buffalo was found to have several superficial abrasions on his front and hind legs, but fortunately, he sustained no serious injuries. First aid was administered before he was safely returned to his enclosure, reported KhaoSod.
Kamonwan explained that she had let her buffaloes graze as usual, but when it was time to bring them back to their pen, Mam was missing. Alarmed by his absence, she went searching and was drawn to the well by the sound of distressed bleating. Upon discovering Mam’s predicament, she promptly contacted the rescue centre for assistance.
“I was at a loss for how to get him out by myself, so I called for help.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why are old wells in rural areas like Chon Buri province potentially hazardous for animals?
Old wells can be hidden traps due to their ground-level openings, posing risks for large animals that wander too close.
How did the community’s quick response contribute to Mam’s successful rescue?
The community’s swift action and collaboration with rescue services ensured timely intervention, preventing serious harm to Mam.
What preventive measures can be taken to avoid similar incidents involving animals and wells?
Securing wells and adding visible signage can reduce the risk of animals accidentally falling into these hidden hazards.
What role does community vigilance play in ensuring animal safety in rural areas?
Community vigilance fosters readiness to respond to emergencies, safeguarding animals and maintaining a secure environment.
What if the collaborative rescue effort hadn’t succeeded in saving Mam?
Failure to rescue Mam could have resulted in severe injuries or death, highlighting the critical need for effective emergency responses.
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