By: Express News ServiceBengaluru | November 19, 2025 11:53 AM IST 2 min readOn Tuesday, the operations began, and a hydraulic crane was transported from Bengaluru. (Express photo)In a massive operation involving more than 100 personnel of the Forest Department, a 12-year-old elephant trapped in a canal at Shivanasamudra in Karnataka’s Mandya district since Sunday was successfully rescued Tuesday after a two-day operation.The elephant had ventured into a canal connected to a private power generation facility to drink water, but was trapped due to the steep walls and strong currents. Despite its attempts to escape, the elephant remained stuck, unable to climb out on its own.The Forest Department Monday tried to rescue, but aborted the mission due to high water levels at the dam. The team regrouped and developed a new strategy, working through the night to lower the water level.On Tuesday, the operations began, and a hydraulic crane was transported from Bengaluru.Raghu D, Deputy Conservator of Forests of Mandya, and Prabhugoud I B, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Mysuru, led the operations.Raghu said the elephant, which had already spent three days in the water, also contracted a fungal infection on its trunk, and, at 60 feet deep, it became impossible to lift the animal.Officials said veterinarians Dr Ramesh and Dr Adarsh prepared the tranquilliser, and after providing sufficient food, the sedative was administered to the elephant.Story continues below this adWhen the elephant was in a semi-conscious state, a closed container was sent, and workers carefully secured the animal with belts and ropes before lifting it. In the meantime, they also ensured that its trunk was not exposed to water to prevent suffocation.The elephant was immediately transported to the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary near Shivanasamudra, where veterinarians conducted health assessments. After confirming stable vital signs, an antidote was administered to reverse the anaesthesia effects.According to local forest officials, the elephant began grazing within 20-30 metres of where it was left in the forest.Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt LtdTags:Karnataka