Elephant Carnage: Rajdhani Express Hits Herd

NEW DELHI – At least seven elephants were killed and one calf injured in a horrific situation where the Sairang-New Delhi Rajdhani Express in Assam’s Hojai collided with a herd on December 20. With carcasses lying on the tracks, there was significant disruption of rail services.

According to officials, the accident took place around 2:17 a.m. when the New Delhi-bound Rajdhani Express struck a herd of elephants that was crossing the railway tracks. Forest department authorities later confirmed that seven elephants were killed in the collision, while one calf was rescued in an injured condition and provided medical attention.

Additionally, a few coaches of the train were derailed. No humans sustained injuries in the incident.

The Sairang–New Delhi Rajdhani Express connects Sairang, near Aizawl in Mizoram, with Anand Vihar Terminal in Delhi..

Officials said that the accident did not occur in a designated elephant corridor. The loco pilot reportedly noticed the herd on the tracks and immediately applied emergency brakes to no avail.

The incident has once again highlighted the growing concern over human-wildlife conflict in the Northeast, particularly the risks posed by railway lines passing through forested and fringe areas. (IANS)