Elephant–train collisions in India are a major anthropogenic cause of wildlife mortality, primarily driven by railway lines cutting across elephant corridors, high-speed night-time operations, and habitat fragmentation. Recognising this risk, Indian Railways has implemented measures such as speed restrictions in vulnerable stretches, AI-based elephant detection systems, coordinated patrolling with forest departments, and the creation of elephant-friendly crossings. While challenges remain in scaling these interventions nationwide, a combination of technology, ecological planning, and institutional coordination offers a viable pathway to significantly reduce such incidents and balance development with conservation.
Click to View MoreIndia’s latest All India Elephant Estimation (2021–25) reports 22,446 wild elephants, the largest population globally. Most elephants are concentrated in the Western Ghats (11,934) and Northeast (6,559) regions. However, challenges such as habitat loss, fragmentation, mining activities, and rising human–elephant conflicts persist. The new scientific census provides an updated baseline for future conservation efforts under Project Elephant, highlighting the need for stronger habitat protection, corridor restoration, and coexistence strategies.
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