Bhubaneswar, Dec 23: Baby elephant Sambhu, who had been ailing since yesterday morning, passed away today at 7:30 a.m. despite continuous medical care.

According to officials, Sambhu’s illness was first noticed on Monday morning. Veterinary experts, including the local Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (VAS) and a specialised team from Nandankanan Zoological Park, were immediately consulted. Under their supervision, the calf received treatment throughout the day. By evening, his condition appeared to improve slightly, he managed to eat and was able to walk slowly, raising hopes among caretakers.

However, the situation took a tragic turn early Tuesday morning when Sambhu’s health deteriorated once again. Authorities quickly planned to transfer him to Nandankanan for advanced treatment, but before the arrangements could be carried out, the young elephant succumbed to his illness.

Wildlife officials expressed deep sorrow over the loss, noting that despite all possible interventions, Sambhu could not be saved. His untimely demise has cast a shadow of grief over caretakers and conservationists, who had been closely monitoring his progress.