From neglect to care: Sundargarh residents come to the rescue of camel abandoned by owner  

Concern turned into compassion in Kutra, Sundargarh, after locals spotted a camel in distress on Sunday. Abandoned by its owner, the weak and frail animal had stopped eating and lay helpless in an open field, barely able to stand. What began as a sight of concern soon drew a crowd of anxious onlookers and quickly turned into a heartfelt rescue mission. With the help of veterinary staff and the local administration, villagers rallied together to care for the camel, giving it a fighting chance at a new life.

Villagers’ Concern

According to locals, the camel had not been fed properly for days. 

“The owner told us the camel had stopped eating and went to bring a veterinarian, but he never returned. Another youth who was with him also did not come back. Yesterday, when we offered some paddy, the camel ate it. This morning, the veterinarian finally arrived and administered some injections,” said Dipak Kujur, a resident of Kutra.

The sight of the struggling animal moved villagers, many of whom tried to help by offering food and shelter.

Camel Under Care

Block Development Officer (BDO) Jugal Kishore Biswal confirmed that the veterinary team found the animal in critical condition. 

“The veterinarian and his team treated the camel and found it in a very weak state. After administering medicines and feeding it, the camel showed slight improvement. However, it still cannot get up, so we arranged a makeshift shed for it to rest. Once it recovers, we will relocate it to a suitable place,” he said.

Expert View

Veterinarian Deepak Parida explained that the animal was suffering from exposure and weakness.

“The camel had developed hypothermia after getting wet in the rain, which lowered its body temperature. It had also become very weak and unable to stand. After treatment, it has become a little more active and should recover soon. But it needs to be shifted somewhere warmer,” he said.

While the exact circumstances of the owner’s disappearance remain unclear, the camel continues to receive care under the supervision of veterinary staff, with villagers keeping a close watch on its recovery.