Train crews’ quick action saves elephants in Assam and North Bengal
Maligaon (Guwahati), Nov 11 : Alert loco pilots and staff of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) prevented several potential elephant-train collisions across vulnerable sections in October, the zone said, reiterating its commitment to safe operations and wildlife protection in one of India’s longest elephant corridors.
On October 10, tower-wagon driver Jitendra Kumar stopped between Rajabhatkhawa and Kalchini in the Alipurduar division after spotting two elephants crossing the track, averting a likely collision.
On October 16, loco pilot Satyendra Yadav and assistant loco pilot Sudarshan Hatimuriah halted a special working near the Mariani–Titabar section in the Tinsukia division to allow four elephants to pass safely.
On October 24, the crew of train 20503 Dibrugarh–New Delhi Rajdhani Express—loco pilot Lalman and assistant loco pilot Vineet Gupta—applied emergency brakes between Bokajan and Khotkhoti in Tinsukia division after sighting an elephant, ensuring the safety of passengers and wildlife.
NFR said these actions reflect the dedication and vigilance of its running staff, and noted that collision-reduction measures in sensitive zones include intrusion detection systems, construction of underpasses and intensified patrolling.
