📍 Location: Jalpaiguri District, West Bengal
📅 Date: July 18, 2025
📰 The Incident
In a heartbreaking case of human-wildlife conflict, three elephants were fatally struck by a speeding train while they were crossing railway tracks near the Moraghat forest range in West Bengal’s Jalpaiguri district.
The tragic collision occurred late in the evening when a herd of elephants was reportedly attempting to cross from one part of the forest to another. The train, running on the New Jalpaiguri–Alipurduar route, was unable to stop in time.
📸 Eyewitness Account
Local forest officials and villagers reported hearing loud trumpeting sounds moments before the impact. Rescue teams rushed to the spot, but two adult elephants and one juvenile had already succumbed to their injuries.
❗ A Recurring Problem
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Over the last decade, India has seen dozens of elephant deaths due to railway collisions, especially in West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha.
🚨 Key Facts:
India has around 88 elephant corridors
Several of these corridors intersect with active railway lines
West Bengal is considered a high-conflict zone due to frequent elephant movement
🧠 Why Is This Happening?
Experts cite several contributing factors:
Lack of early-warning systems for approaching herds
Inadequate fencing and underpasses on railway routes through forests
Speeding trains in elephant movement zones
Shrinking habitats pushing elephants closer to human settlements
🛠️ Government & Conservation Response
The Forest Department has initiated an inquiry and is coordinating with Indian Railways. Suggested measures include:
Installing motion sensors and thermal cameras
Designating elephant-crossing zones with speed restrictions
Constructing eco-bridges or underpasses
Night-time speed regulation for trains in forest areas
🐘 A Call for Coexistence
Wildlife experts and conservationists are urging for urgent intervention, noting that elephants are a Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act—deserving of the highest level of protection.
“If infrastructure continues to ignore wildlife paths, such tragedies will keep repeating,” said a conservation biologist from Wildlife Trust of India.
💬 FAQs
Q: How many elephants die in train accidents annually in India?
A: On average, 15–20 elephants are killed each year in railway collisions.
Q: What steps has Indian Railways taken so far?
A: Pilot projects include speed controls, signage, and AI-based monitoring systems in high-risk zones.
Q: Can technology help reduce these incidents?
A: Yes, motion sensors, satellite collars, and AI-based alerts are being tested and deployed in critical corridors.
🙏 Final Thoughts
The death of these gentle giants is a painful reminder of the urgent need for sustainable development that respects wildlife corridors. As India builds its future, it must also protect its natural heritage.
Published on : 18th July
Published by : SMITA
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