Railway's measures help save 255 elephants from train collisions in 2026

Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has said its use of AI-based alerts, speed restrictions, enhanced patrolling and the ‘Plan Bee’ system helped save 255 elephants from potential train collisions between January and September 2026.

According to NFR Chief Public Relations Officer Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, the elephants were saved through timely interventions and coordination with the Forest Department across four divisions. Alipurduar recorded 106 cases, followed by 122 in Lumding, 15 in Tinsukia and 14 in Rangiya.

One of the key measures is an AI-based Intrusion Detection System that uses Distributed Acoustic System technology to detect elephant movement near railway tracks and issue real-time alerts. Railway personnel can then take preventive action and alert train crews in vulnerable sections.

NFR also imposes temporary and night-time speed restrictions when elephant movement is reported. The railway has installed its ‘Plan Bee’ system at vulnerable locations, which uses amplified honeybee sounds to discourage elephants from approaching tracks.

Underpasses are also being constructed at identified locations to provide safer routes for wildlife and reduce the need for elephants to cross railway lines. Railway teams conduct regular patrolling, clear vegetation in vulnerable areas, and install cautionary signs.

NFR is also sensitising railway staff, train crews, pantry car personnel and passengers against throwing food waste near tracks, as discarded food can attract elephants and other animals.

Continuous communication with the Forest Department enables railway personnel to respond when elephant movement is detected, Sharma said.

NFR said all train-elephant collision cases are investigated under prescribed safety procedures. The railway said it would continue strengthening technology-based monitoring, frontline vigilance and coordination with wildlife authorities to protect elephants while maintaining safe train operations.