Naxalbari, 11th October: A major mishap was averted after forest department personnel stopped an approaching train to allow a herd of over 70 elephants to safely cross the railway tracks near Kiran Chandra Tea Estate in Naxalbari.
The incident took place on Saturday when the herd was moving from the Tukriajhar area of Naxalbari towards the Bagdogra forest. Elephants frequently cross railway tracks in the region while moving between forest areas.
As the herd was crossing the tracks near Kiran Chandra Tea Estate, the train approached the stretch. Acting swiftly, forest personnel signalled with a red cloth, prompting the train to halt and preventing a possible collision.
Once the train stopped, the elephants crossed the railway tracks and the national highway before entering the Bagdogra forest safely.
The prompt action of the forest department personnel have saved the lives of over 100 elephants. A video capturing the incident has since gone viral on social media.
