Tragedy at Thai elephant sanctuary highlights tourism risks
Blanca Ojanguren García, a 22-year-old law and international relations student, died in a tragic accident during an elephant bathing activity in Thailand. The tragedy occurred at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre.
The young woman was participating in a popular tourist attraction, which is bathing with elephants. According to local police reports, the 22-year-old Spanish woman was washing an elephant when the animal suddenly panicked and struck her with its tusks. Blanca fell, hitting her head, which caused severe injuries. Unfortunately, despite immediate transportation to the hospital, her life could not be saved.
In connection with the accident, the 38-year-old elephant caretaker, Theerayut Inthaphudkij, has been charged with negligence leading to the young woman's death.
Tourists increase the stress levels of animals
Wildlife conservation experts suggest that the elephant's behaviour could have been caused by stress resulting from interactions with tourists in an environment significantly different from its natural habitat.
John Roberts, the director of elephant conservation at the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, has repeatedly emphasised that any activities involving elephants should be tailored to their individual character and comfort levels in the presence of people.
Animal rights organisations, such as World Animal Protection, have long criticised attractions where tourists have direct contact with wild animals. According to reports from this organisation, over 60% of elephants used in tourism in Asia live in "dramatically inadequate" conditions. Animal advocates are calling for an end to captive elephant breeding and limiting attractions like bathing or feeding that disrupt their natural behaviours.
Elephant sanctuaries are popular attractions in Thailand
Blanca García was in Thailand on a holiday trip with her boyfriend, who witnessed the tragic event. She had previously studied in Taiwan as part of a student exchange programme. The Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, confirmed that the consulate in Bangkok is providing support to the deceased's family during this difficult time.
Elephant bathing is one of the most popular attractions in Thailand. According to the Department of National Parks, about 4,000 wild elephants live in the country, and a similar number are in captivity. The Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre offered tourist packages that included feeding, bathing, and walking with these majestic animals, priced between £45–£70.
Source: travelweekly.com
