A tragic Assam train elephant collision occurred early Saturday in Hojai district and caused widespread disruption.
The Sealdah–New Delhi Rajdhani Express hit a herd of wild elephants near the Jamunamukh–Kampur section.
The crash happened around 2:17 am in the Changjurai area, officials confirmed.
Forest department officers said eight elephants died on the spot.
One elephant suffered critical injuries and remains under observation.
The impact derailed the locomotive and five coaches, creating panic along the track.
All passengers escaped unharmed, railway officials said.
The loco pilot applied emergency brakes after spotting elephants on the track.
The train still struck the herd due to close distance.
Officials clarified that the site does not fall under a designated elephant corridor.
Forest teams reached the location quickly and began an assessment.
Railway staff launched restoration work on a war footing.
Authorities diverted several trains to alternative routes to ease congestion.
Elephant remains scattered across the track delayed services in upper Assam and nearby regions.
Relief trains and heavy machinery arrived to clear the line.
Officials expect gradual restoration after debris removal.
The incident again raised concerns over wildlife safety near railway tracks.
Experts continue to demand better monitoring systems in forest-adjacent rail sections.
