With elephants against the floods: Mönch Odd brings hope to Chiang Mai

With elephants against the floods: Mönch Odd brings hope to Chiang Mai

In a remarkable aid campaign in Chiang Mai, Thailand, a monk has provided support for flood victims in a very special way. Known as Monk Odd, he traveled to the affected areas on two elephants to distribute the required relief supplies. This creative method proved to be particularly effective, since many of the affected residents had fled to higher areas and were therefore difficult to reach. The elephants offer a huge opportunity to bring food and other important products even in inaccessible zones, while Monk Odd at the same time wanted to give the residents a joy in their difficult situation, as the news page "The Thaiger" reported.

The defective accessibility of some areas is a consequence of the severe monsoon rainfalls that recently searched for the region. Even at the beginning of the week, many places in the popular tourist city were still inaccessible after the floods, which caused further food supplies to be urgently needed. The attention that Monk Odd attracted with his elephants was not only practical, but also emotionally supportive for the desperate residents.

background to the flood disaster

The monsoon has hit several regions in North Thailand, especially Chiang Mai, where flood raged again. Tragically, there were also several elephants, which were originally abused and are now housed in special camps. Helpers fought hectically in the days before to bring the animals to safety, unfortunately at least two elephants died.

elephants are not only an important cultural symbol in Thailand, but are also considered national animals and lucky charms. In traditional temples and shrines, there are numerous statues dedicated to the pachyderms, and their presence is deeply rooted in Thai culture. So it is not surprising that one of the country's best -known beer brands derives their name, “Chang”, from the Thai word for elephant.

Monk Odd, who lives in the famous Wat Chedi Luang, one of the most important Buddhist temples of Chiang Mai, had taken care of the water levels, currents and weather conditions before his unconventional aid. This preparation was decisive for the security of both the residents and the animals during the trip through the flood areas.

This auxiliary campaign not only shows the ingenuity and compassion of a single, but also throws a light on the great challenge that the affected communities have to face in this critical period. While the search for other relief supplies continues, there is hope that such creative solutions can reach more people. The reactions of the children, who waved enthusiastically to the elephants, also illustrate the joy and gratitude that such gestures of compassion bring with them, even in times of the deepest need.