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Animal vs Train: A Tragic Toll

Over 63,000 Animals Killed on Railway Tracks in India

Innovative Solutions Emerge to Protect Elephants

Over 63,000 animals, including four Asiatic lions and 73 elephants, have lost their lives on railway tracks in India between 2017-18 and 2020-21, according to a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

The report highlights the alarming rate of animal mortality on railway lines, emphasizing the need for urgent action to address this issue. The high number of deaths is attributed to a combination of factors, including habitat fragmentation, lack of underpasses and overpasses for animal crossings, and speeding trains.

Concerned by the impact on elephants specifically, researchers and conservationists in India are exploring innovative solutions to prevent train strikes. One promising approach involves training bees to identify train sounds. Once trained, these bees can alert elephants to the approaching danger by releasing a warning pheromone.

As the situation continues to evolve, it remains imperative for authorities and stakeholders to collaborate in implementing effective measures to safeguard animals and protect wildlife populations.