A remarkable instance of coordination between railway authorities and forest officials in Assam helped protect a herd of wild elephants from a potentially dangerous encounter with a moving train in Hojai district on Wednesday morning.
The Down Rajdhani Express was temporarily stopped after forest personnel noticed a group of elephants approaching and attempting to cross the railway tracks near Hawaipur, under the Lanka Range. The herd was reportedly moving across the tracks when the train was nearing the area, prompting officials to act swiftly to prevent any possible collision.
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Forest officials immediately alerted the railway authorities about the presence of the elephants. The warning reached the loco-pilot and the Lumding Railway Control Room, allowing the train to be brought to a halt at the appropriate location. The coordinated response gave the elephants enough time to cross the tracks without disturbance or harm.
Once the entire herd had safely moved away from the railway line, the train was allowed to continue its journey. Officials said the incident demonstrated the importance of constant monitoring and quick communication in areas where railway tracks pass through wildlife habitats.
Assam Forest Minister Jayanta MallaBarua shared a video of the incident on social media, highlighting the successful intervention. He said the Rajdhani Express had been stopped near Km 167/8 to allow the elephant herd to pass safely at Hawaipur.
The minister praised the efforts of the Assam Forest Department personnel, the train’s loco-pilot and the Lumding Railway Control Room for responding promptly. He also underlined the continued vigilance of forest staff in protecting wildlife.
The incident serves as another reminder of the challenges faced by elephants and other wild animals when their natural movement routes intersect with railway infrastructure. Timely alerts, reduced train speeds and close cooperation between forest and railway authorities can play a crucial role in preventing wildlife casualties.
For the officials involved, the brief halt of a major passenger train was a small but important step toward ensuring that Assam’s wildlife could continue its journey safely.
