Seven elephants were killed early Saturday after a passenger train struck a herd in northeast India. The crash happened in Assam’s Hojai district, officials confirmed. One elephant was injured and survived.

According to district police chief VV Rakesh Reddy, the accident occurred during the early morning hours. The Delhi-bound train hit the elephants at about 2:17 a.m. local time. As a result, panic spread across the area.

Meanwhile, the Northeast Frontier Railway released a statement explaining the incident. The railway confirmed the crash did not occur in a designated elephant corridor. However, wildlife movement is common in the region.

Railway officials said the locomotive pilot spotted the herd on the tracks. Therefore, the pilot immediately applied the emergency brakes. However, the elephants reportedly rushed toward the oncoming train. Consequently, the collision became unavoidable.

Following the impact, the locomotive and five coaches derailed. Despite the damage, no passengers were injured. Railway authorities quickly secured the site and began response efforts.

As a precaution, trains scheduled to pass through the affected section were diverted. Meanwhile, restoration crews began repair work on the tracks. Officials said services would resume once safety checks were completed.

Assam is known for frequent human-wildlife encounters. In particular, elephants often cross railway lines while moving between forest areas. Therefore, conservation groups have repeatedly warned about the risks.

In recent years, wildlife advocates have urged stronger safety measures. These include speed restrictions, night patrols, and better track monitoring. However, accidents continue to occur.

Furthermore, experts note that habitat loss has increased elephant movement near rail lines. As forests shrink, elephants search wider areas for food and water. Consequently, encounters with trains have become more common.

Officials said authorities will review the incident. They will also assess whether additional safety measures are needed in the area. Meanwhile, wildlife teams are monitoring the injured elephant.

Local residents expressed concern following the crash. Many called for improved coordination between railway authorities and wildlife officials. They believe prevention remains possible with better planning.

Overall, the incident highlights the growing conflict between development and wildlife protection. As train traffic increases, experts warn similar accidents could follow.

For now, restoration work continues. Investigations remain ongoing as authorities seek ways to prevent future tragedies involving wildlife and railways.

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