Rath Yatra scare in Ahmedabad: Elephant runs amok near Khadia, tranquilised and isolated; 17 others continue on route

AHMEDABAD: A male elephant from the 18-elephant procession in the Rath Yatra celebrations went out of control near Desai Ni Pol in Khadia on Friday morning, causing a brief scare among onlookers.According to RK Sahu, Superintendent of the Kamla Nehru Zoological Garden, the elephant – the only male among the 18 – suddenly became agitated and began running, veering away from the designated path of the procession.“Following protocol, the elephant was immediately given a tranquiliser injection. Two female elephants were used to gently herd him away from the crowd, in line with our standard safety strategy,” said Sahu.

No injuries were reported. The crowd in the area, though momentarily alarmed, was quickly brought under control.Officials confirmed that the male elephant is now isolated and will not rejoin the ongoing Rath Yatra procession. The other 17 elephants – all female – have continued on the route without further incident.The Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad, one of the most significant religious events in the city, sees massive footfall each year, with elaborate arrangements in place to manage both the crowds and the procession participants, including elephants and chariots.