HT Digital,
Guwahati, Nov 20: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday expressed deep anguish over the death of seven wild elephants after the Sairang–New Delhi Rajdhani Express hit a herd in Nagaon district.
Calling the incident “deeply saddening”, the Chief Minister said he has directed the Forest Department to conduct a detailed enquiry into the collision. He also emphasised the need to strengthen protection measures along wildlife corridors, especially during seasons of low visibility when such accidents are more likely.
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The accident occurred early morning in the Jamunamukh–Kampur section under the Lumding Division of the Northeast Frontier Railway, a known elephant movement corridor around 126 kilometres from Guwahati. The impact derailed the locomotive and five coaches of the premium train. Railway authorities confirmed that no passengers were injured.
Forest officials said the herd comprised around eight elephants. Seven — including adults and calves — died on the spot, while one injured calf was shifted for veterinary treatment.
The Chief Minister’s response has once again drawn attention to the fragile balance between infrastructure expansion and wildlife conservation in Assam, where rail lines frequently cut across critical elephant corridors.
