World Animal Protection welcomes the move to stop using elephants infected with tuberculosis at Amer Fort
World Animal Protection welcomes the decision taken by the Rajasthan Government to stop using ten elephants infected with tuberculosis at Amer Fort in Jaipur. The dangers of zoonotic diseases and tuberculosis in elephants have been been an integral part of our discussions.
World Animal Protection has repeatedly highlighted the risks of tuberculosis in the Amer Fort elephants and elephants in captivity in investigative reports, notably, the report entitled ‘Taken For A Ride: The conditions for elephants used in tourism in Asia’ published in July 2017, and submitted to the government of Rajasthan.
"While the relief offered to tuberculosis-infected elephants used for entertaining tourists is a welcome move; World Animal Protection remains fundamentally opposed to the whole spectacle of elephants offering rides to tourists in Amer Fort. World Animal Protection believes that wildlife belongs in the wild and implores the government of Rajasthan to voluntarily phase out elephant rides at Amer Fort and develop a sustainable solution for rescued animals," said Gajender K Sharma, India Country Director at World Animal Protection.
World Animal Protection is prepared to offer technical support in the development of a model rescue centre for elephants and can provide veterinary guidance for the welfare of tuberculosis affected elephants that have been taken off their riding duties. World Animal Protection remains appreciative of all stakeholders trying to help the elephants of Rajasthan, including governmental and non-governmental agencies.
Access the report Taken For A Ride: https://www.worldanimalprotection.org.in/sites/default/files/in_files/t…
