Tragic Collision: Seven Elephants Killed by Train in Assam, India

Sun Dec 21 2025 08:31:00 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An express train in Assam, India, collided with a herd of elephants, resulting in the tragic deaths of seven elephants, including calves. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of wildlife management in regions where railways cross animal habitats.

In a devastating incident in Hojai district, Assam, seven wild Asian elephants were killed when a high-speed train struck a herd crossing the tracks. Despite emergency braking efforts from the train driver, the collision resulted in the derailment of five carriages. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among passengers, but the event raises concerns about wildlife safety along railway corridors. Local authorities are investigating the incident as the area is not a designated elephant corridor, despite Assam's significant elephant population.

Seven wild Asian elephants, including calves, were killed when a high-speed train collided with a herd crossing the tracks in north-eastern India, local officials report.

Another injured calf was found following the incident, which occurred early on Saturday in Hojai district, Assam state.

The Northeast Frontier Railway indicated that the train driver had spotted dozens of elephants and employed emergency brakes, but unfortunately, some animals were still struck.

Following the collision, five carriages derailed; however, no injuries were reported among passengers and crew on the Delhi-bound express train. As a result of the accident, train cancellations and diversions were noted throughout the area that day.

The deceased elephants were later examined by veterinarians and buried. Assam is home to one of the largest elephant populations in India, with nearly 6,000 animals recorded in the state.

Local railway tracks are often traversed by elephant herds, but the collision occurred in a location that is not recognized as an elephant corridor, according to the Northeast Frontier Railway.