Union Minister Calls for Action After Train Accident Claims Lives of Eight Elephants in Assam

A tragic incident in Assam has led to the death of eight elephants after being struck by a train. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav has called for a detailed report and emphasized the need for better monitoring of elephant movements near railway tracks. The incident, which occurred in Hojai district, has raised concerns about wildlife safety and the coordination between railway authorities and forest departments. As investigations continue, the minister has urged district officials to keep a close watch on elephant activity to prevent future accidents. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of protecting wildlife in areas intersecting with human infrastructure.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 21, 2025, 14:31 IST

Union Minister Responds to Tragic Incident

On December 21, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav announced that the central government has requested a comprehensive report regarding the tragic death of eight elephants, which were struck by a train in Hojai district, Assam, the previous day.

The Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change emphasized that all states must monitor elephant movements near railway tracks to avert similar tragedies.

During a press conference following a meeting focused on Project Elephant and the National Tiger Conservation Authority in the Sundarbans, West Bengal, Yadav stated that railway officials have been instructed to collaborate with state forest departments to track elephant movements along railways.

He highlighted the importance of effective communication between train operators and forest officials. Additionally, district magistrates have been directed to keep forest departments updated on elephant movements near highways.

It is worth noting that an elephant calf, which was injured in the incident, unfortunately passed away on Sunday while receiving medical care.

Earlier, seven elephants were killed instantly when the Sairang–New Delhi Rajdhani Express collided with them in Changjurai village, Hojai district, early Saturday morning.

The injured calf was taken for treatment but succumbed to its injuries on Sunday morning. The accident also caused five train coaches and the engine to derail, although no passengers were harmed.

Suhash Kadam, the Divisional Forest Officer of Nagaon, indicated that the accident might have been caused by dense fog in the region.