Is the Translocation of Elephants to Japan an Unprecedented Achievement?

Bengaluru, July 28 (NationPress) Following the remarkable relocation of four elephants from Bannerughatta Biological Park (BBP) in Bengaluru to Japan, A.V. Surya Sen, the Deputy Conservator of Forests and Executive Director of BBP, expressed on Monday that this translocation marks an unprecedented achievement, extending gratitude to the Union government.

In a historic first, four elephants from BBP -- Suresh (8), Gauri (9), Shruti (7), and Tulsi (5) -- have been successfully moved to Japan, where they are embarking on a new journey.

The elephants were airlifted from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru to Kansai International Airport in Osaka, Japan, on July 24, using a Qatar Airways B777-200F cargo aircraft.

After an extensive journey of over eight hours, they safely arrived in Japan on July 25. From there, they were transported in specially designed enclosures by road to Himeji Central Park, their new residence.

Surya Sen issued a press release highlighting, "The Bannerughatta Biological Park in Bengaluru proudly announces the successful translocation of four elephants to Himeji Central Park in Japan -- a remarkable achievement in its history and a significant milestone for international wildlife collaboration."

He noted, "This intricate and sensitive animal exchange program was made feasible through the united efforts, coordination, and commitment of various departments, institutions, and individuals from both India and Japan."

Special acknowledgment was given to the Animal Quarantine and Certification Services in Bengaluru and the Union government's Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying for conducting thorough health certifications and quarantine inspections, ensuring the animals' fitness for international travel.

Sen expressed gratitude to the Japanese Embassy and Consulate in India for their diplomatic support and assistance with documentation throughout the process, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring effective collaboration between the two nations.

He remarked, "This successful relocation showcases our shared dedication to wildlife conservation, ethical animal management, and international cooperation. It establishes a favorable precedent for future partnerships aimed at preserving global biodiversity and promoting educational exchange across borders."

Sen continued, "We appreciate the timely approvals and permissions from Sunil Panwar, Indian Foreign Service, Karnataka Zoo Authority Member Secretary, Central Zoo Authority, and the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. We also thank the Chief Wildlife Warden and the Karnataka Forest Department for their unwavering support in facilitating a smooth translocation of the elephants."

He noted the critical roles played by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau in facilitating the issuance of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) permit, ensuring compliance with international wildlife trade regulations. Additionally, he acknowledged the logistical expertise of Goatrade Farming Co. Ltd. and Global Cargo Services for their seamless transportation and timely cargo management. The professionalism of the authorities at Kempegowda International Airport and in Japan was also commended for their meticulous handling of this unique wildlife transport.

At the core of this achievement lies the dedicated team at Bannerughatta Biological Park -- our veterinarians, mahouts, kavadis, and support staff -- whose relentless efforts ensured the health, comfort, and safety of the elephants throughout the process. We commend the Himeji Central Park team for their collaboration, preparation, and warm reception of the animals upon arrival.

Previously, authorities indicated that this exchange, in planning since 2023, was facilitated by collaboration between the Central Zoo Authority, the embassies of Japan and India, and several other departments. To prepare for the relocation, the elephants underwent three months of specialized training. A dedicated team, including two veterinary officers, four mahouts, a supervisor, and a biologist, accompanied them and will remain in Japan for 15 days to assist the elephants in acclimating to their new surroundings.

In an exciting future prospect, the park is expected to welcome rare species such as cheetahs, jaguars, pumas, chimpanzees, and capuchin monkeys in exchange for the elephants from Japan, giving wildlife enthusiasts a chance to witness exotic animals in enriched habitats.

Bannerughatta Biological Park was established as a designated area carved out of Bannerughatta National Park in 2002.

Situated near Bengaluru city, nestled within the hills of the Anekal range in Karnataka, Bannerughatta National Park spans across two districts: Bengaluru Urban and Bengaluru South.

It was officially declared a national park in 1974.

This park serves as a vital wildlife corridor for elephants, linking the B.R. Hills and the Sathyamangalam forests.

It is contiguous with the Talli Reserve Forest to the southeast and the Bilikal Forest to the south.

Notably, Bannerughatta Biological Park was the first biological park in India to create a fenced, forested elephant sanctuary.

In 2006, it became home to India's first butterfly enclosure.