This Article is From Jan 05, 2013

Three elephants die after being hit by train, one critically injured

Jalpaiguri: Three elephants were killed and one was seriously injured this evening when a speeding train hit them at Rajabhatkhaoa in Jalpaiguri district.

Forest officials said three full grown elephants died on the spot in Buxa reserve forest area when the Guwahati-Jhanjha Express rammed into them at about 6.30 PM, while another jumbo lay critically injured.

The oncoming train hit an elephant herd which was crossing the railway tracks, officials said.

The railways dispatched a special train to take the passengers of the express, which lay stranded, to their respective destinations, NFR sources said.

A relief van was also sent to clear the tracks of the dead elephants.

Locals agitated at the spot alleging that the motorman of the train could have averted the mishap had he slowed down on seeing the herd crossing.

The railways, however, said the motorman probably could not see the herd until the train was too close.

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