Concerns Raised Over Elephant Deaths in Assam Train Collision

Tragic Incident Highlights Human-Animal Conflict

Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has expressed deep concern following the tragic incident in Assam where eight elephants lost their lives after being struck by the Rajdhani Express. He emphasized the increasing human-animal conflict in the region, attributing such tragedies to a lack of foresight and accountability. Gogoi took to social media to highlight that the deaths of these elephants are alarming and underscore the challenges posed by rising human-wildlife interactions. He pointed out that these incidents reflect the rapid degradation and fragmentation of natural habitats in recent years. The unplanned and irregular development under the current government has led to shrinking forest areas, disrupted traditional migration routes, and a disregard for ecological safety measures.

He further stated that the absence of foresight and accountability has exacerbated these tragedies. Development policies should prioritize people, communities, and the environment over short-term profits. Ignoring this balance only increases ecological damage and social costs in Assam. Earlier today, a distressing event occurred in the Lumding division of N.F. Railway, where train number 20507, the Dibrugarh-New Delhi Rajdhani Express, collided with elephants, resulting in the derailment of the engine and five coaches. While seven elephants perished, fortunately, no passengers were injured.

Upon receiving news of the accident, senior railway officials, including the General Manager of N.F. Railway and the Divisional Railway Manager of Lumding, promptly arrived at the scene to initiate recovery operations.