After the flood disaster

Thailand: Monk brought relief supplies with elephants

Before taking action, Monk Odd had carefully weighed up the water level, the currents and the weather conditions so as not to endanger his animals.

(Bild: AP)

Landfall in Chiang Mai - residents in northern Thailand are suffering the consequences of a flood disaster. Many areas are inaccessible. But one monk still found a way to bring "a little joy to those in need". 

A monk from one of Chiang Mai's most famous temples packed relief supplies onto two elephants and rode the pachyderms to residents in particularly affected areas.

Due to the size of the animals, the cleric was also able to "deliver" food and supplies to people living on the second floor.

Before taking action, Monk Odd had carefully weighed up the water level, currents and weather conditions so as not to endanger his animals.

(Bild: AP)

The monk lives in Wat Chedi Luang, one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai.

(Bild: AP)

Before taking action, Monk Odd carefully weighed up the water level, the currents and the weather conditions.

(Bild: AP)

(Bild: AP)

Elephants are considered lucky charms
Children in particular waved enthusiastically to Monk Odd and the elephants "Khunsaen" and "Saenthap". Elephants are the national animal of Thailand and are considered to bring good luck. There are statues in many temples and shrines, many businesses advertise with elephant symbols and even a beer brand is called "Chang" - the Thai word for elephant.

After heavy monsoon rains, Chiang Mai - like other regions in northern Thailand - was flooded again at the end of last week. Elephants that were once mistreated and now live in special camps were also affected by the floods. Helpers had been feverishly trying to bring them to safety over the past few days. At least two animals died in the floods.