Bagaha / Patna : Elderly man narrowly escaped death after a stray rhinoceros from the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) attacked him while he was irrigating his fields. The incident, which unfolded near Rampur Pokhara Tola in the Laukaria police station area, has become the talk of the region—thanks to the heroic intervention of two local dogs.
Dogs Distract Rhino, Saving Elderly Farmer
Umakant Chaudhary, 67, was tending to his field when the rhino, straying from its habitat, suddenly charged at him. Thrown to the ground and at the mercy of the powerful animal, Chaudhary’s life hung in the balance. However, two dogs nearby sprang into action. Barking furiously and lunging at the rhino, they distracted it long enough for the villagers working nearby to intervene. Armed with sticks, the villagers managed to drive the rhino away, allowing Chaudhary to escape. He was later admitted to the sub-divisional hospital in Bagaha, where he is receiving treatment.
Second Attack on Woman in Nearby Village
The rhino, however, did not stop there. After fleeing from Rampur Pokhara Tola, it moved towards Argana Tola, where it attacked 47-year-old Biyfi Devi as she worked in her field. Once again, the villagers intervened, forcing the rhino to retreat before it could cause further harm. Devi was also taken to the hospital, where she is undergoing treatment.
Forest Department on HighAlertt
Following the attacks, the forest department has intensified its efforts to monitor the rhino’s movements. Dr. Neshamani, Conservator and Area Director of the VTR, confirmed that multiple teams have been deployed to track the animal. Forest Officer Rajesh Roshan stated that five teams are currently keeping a close watch on the rhino, which has been spotted near a residential area in Madanpur. Efforts are underway to guide it back to the forest safely.
Heroic Dogs Spark Local Conversation
The bravery of the dogs has sparked widespread discussion in the region. Villagers credit the animals for saving Chaudhary’s life, with many highlighting the crucial role they played in preventing a tragedy.
