Quick-Thinking Pilots Avert Disaster
In a remarkable display of alertness and quick action, the loco pilots of the Rajdhani Express applied the emergency brake to prevent a collision with a herd of elephants crossing the railway tracks in Assam. The incident occurred on the night of June 23 near the Habaipur area in the Nagaon district, as per railway officials.
The train, running at a speed of approximately 110 km/h, was heading towards Guwahati when the pilots spotted the elephants on the tracks. They immediately applied the emergency brake, bringing the train to a halt just in time. The herd, consisting of around 15 elephants, crossed the tracks safely.
Video Captures the Tense Moment
A video of the incident, recorded by a passenger, has gone viral on social media. The footage shows the train slowing down and stopping as the elephants cross the tracks. The video has been widely shared, with many praising the pilots for their presence of mind.
According to the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) officials, the pilots have been commended for their swift action. “The loco pilots showed great presence of mind and averted a major accident. Their timely action saved the lives of the elephants and the passengers,” said an NFR spokesperson.
Elephant-Human Conflict in Assam
Assam has witnessed several incidents of elephants being hit by trains in the past. The state has a significant elephant population, and railway tracks often pass through their habitats. The NFR has implemented measures such as speed restrictions and elephant corridors to mitigate such conflicts.
In 2024, at least 12 elephants were killed in train accidents in Assam, according to forest department data. The latest incident highlights the importance of vigilance and quick response to prevent such tragedies.
The pilots, identified as Ashok Kumar and Ramesh Singh, were commended by the railway authorities. “We are proud of our team. This incident shows how training and awareness can save lives,” the spokesperson added.
