Jaipur,
June 5, 2022.
‘Jaipur Bikers,’ a bikers’ and wildlife
enthusiast group from Jaipur has extended their support to World Animal
Protection to spread awareness on the plight of elephants used as attractions
for tourism in Jaipur. The elephants in Amer fort are part of the tourism
attraction package that subjects these wild animals to live in unnatural
conditions and bear a life of suffering.Shri Kanhaiya Lal Bairwa and Gajender Kumar Sharma, Country Director,
World Animal Protection, Indiaflagged off the ride.
"Elephants
and other animals are used as commodities for commercial prospects in many
places like Amer Fort in Jaipur. We take this initiative of “No Pride in
Elephant Ride" to bring awareness among key stakeholders to help us in
ending their suffering and relocating them to appropriate sanctuaries,”
said Gajender Kumar Sharma, Country
Director, World Animal Protection, India.
The
world is not the same post pandemic. The tourism industry was one of the most
impacted industries leaving mahouts and owners of these wild animals struggling
to arrange appropriate space, food and other amenities in extraordinary
circumstances.
"An
adult elephant needs about 200 kg of daily food in such demanding times when it
is difficult for human survival and we see this as a window to emphasise the
concept of ‘bring back better’ embracing a humane model of tourism to improve
the lives of the captive elephants. We have been in discussions with the
government of Rajasthan to start a feasibility study to find alternative
solutions to ensure welfare of elephants and mahouts is safeguarded."
said Gajender K Sharma, Country Director, World Animal Protection, India.
This
event is to bring awareness and garner support for this initiate and strengthen
our voice with more support. Join us in this campaign and help to break this
chain of demand and supply to enable relocation and rehabilitation of these wild
creatures, gifting them a deserving life free of silent suffering. .#noprideinelephantride