Net set up to capture six elephant carcasses tumbled down the Khao Yai waterfall in Thailand

The bodies of six elephants are seen at the base of Haew Narok waterfall in Khao Yai National Park on Saturday. (Supplied photo). Sketched by the Pan Pacific Agency.

BANGKOK, Oct 7, 2019, Bangkok Post. Park officers have set up a large net downstream from the carcasses of six elephants in Haew Narok waterfall in Khao Yai National Park to prevent them from floating down to the Khun Dan Prakan Chon dam in Nakhon Nayok, averting the risk of water contamination, reported the Bangkok Post.

The officers estimate the carcasses will reach the net in 4-5 days. The carcasses will then be plucked out of the water and buried. The burial ground will be sealed with hydrated lime to prevent the rotting carcasses from contaminating the area.

The jumbos tumbled down the waterfall and drowned on Saturday morning.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa has ordered the construction of a barricade to prevent wildlife from falling into the waterfall. He also suggested setting up food banks in areas around the park to supply wildlife with food and water. Food scarcity can lead to animals approaching dangerous spots such as the top of the waterfall.

The Minister also urged locals and military officers to monitor the wellbeing of elephants and other wildlife.

Meanwhile, a source said the two elephants rescued from the scene on Saturday were believed to have made their way back safely to their habitat. A troupe of park rangers was deployed to ensure their safety.

Located in the Pak Phli district of Nakhon Nayok, Haew Narok is the largest and one of the most picturesque waterfalls inside Khao Yai National Park. The park covers four provinces — Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachin Buri, Nakhon Nayok and Saraburi.

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