Traffic came to a halt as a herd of elephants slowly made their way onto the road. Among them, a young calf stood frozen, overwhelmed by the vast expanse of asphalt stretching before it. For a brief moment, it hesitated, uncertain of what lay ahead. But then, with a gentle nudge, the mother elephant leaned in, her trunk guiding the calf forward. It was a quiet promise — a reassurance: Go on. I’m here.

The calf hesitated no longer, stumbling across the road and into safety, the small crowd of onlookers watching in quiet awe. For many, it was a heartwarming sight, a tender moment of maternal love and care. But underneath that peaceful scene, a much harsher reality lurked. These elephants, once free to roam the vast forests and grasslands, are now being forced to navigate increasingly narrow corridors. Roads, towns, and human settlements continue to encroach upon their ancient migration routes, placing them in constant danger.

Every year, lives are lost. Elephants, caught in the path of expanding human infrastructure, are struck by vehicles. People too fall victim to these encounters, and families — both human and animal — are torn apart. The cause? The relentless expansion of roads into once protected spaces, shrinking the natural habitats of these majestic creatures.

The small, loving push of a mother’s trunk carried more than just affection for her calf. It was a reminder — a call to action: If we do not protect their migratory paths, these crossings may not always end in safety. As we continue to build and expand, we must remember that wildlife, too, needs space to roam. The preservation of these natural corridors is not just important; it’s essential for the survival of species like elephants and for the harmony between us and the wild.

Let’s act before these tender moments become fleeting memories, lost to the encroaching asphalt