Alert Train Crew Prevents Tragedy, Saves Pride of 10 Lions on Tracks Near Gir
In the quiet pre-dawn hours near the Gir forest, a routine passenger train journey briefly transformed into a high-stakes scenario that could have ended in catastrophe. Instead, it stands as a powerful testament to how human alertness, quick thinking, and restraint can preserve lives—both human and wild.
Emergency Brakes Applied Just in Time
On Monday, a Veraval–Junagadh passenger train was traversing the Sasan Gir–Kansiyanesh section when its experienced loco pilot, Ramavatar Meena, detected an unusual obstruction ahead. In the dim morning light, a majestic pride of 10 Asiatic lions had wandered onto the railway track, directly in the train's path.
With no time to hesitate, Meena, assisted by his co-pilot, Sonu Sharma, immediately engaged the emergency braking system. The train screeched to a dramatic halt just in the nick of time, narrowly avoiding what could have been a devastating and fatal collision in this critical lion corridor.
Coordinated Response Ensures Safe Passage
The incident occurred in an area renowned for frequent movement of the endangered Asiatic lions from the nearby Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. As the train stood immobilized, the loco pilot promptly alerted the train manager, Sanjay Dixit.
Fortuitously, a forest department tracker, J.G. Parmar, was traveling aboard the same train. Parmar swiftly intervened, utilizing his expertise to gently guide the lions away from the hazardous tracks and back to the safety of their natural habitat.
Railway officials only permitted the train to proceed after the area was thoroughly cleared and conditions were confirmed to be normal. The train then moved cautiously through the sensitive stretch, ensuring no further risk to wildlife.
Officials Praise Vigilance and Protocol
Senior railway officials later commended the crew's exceptional presence of mind and adherence to safety protocols. "This incident perfectly illustrates why strict speed limits and constant vigilance are rigorously enforced in designated wildlife zones," stated an official, highlighting the importance of preventive measures.
This successful rescue is not an isolated event. According to data from the Bhavnagar Railway Division, coordinated efforts between dedicated railway staff and the forest department have yielded remarkable results:
- During the financial year 2024–25, these collaborative efforts saved 159 lions from potential train accidents.
- In the current financial year alone, 101 lions have already been protected through similar proactive interventions.
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges and successes in balancing infrastructure mobility with critical wildlife conservation efforts in ecologically sensitive regions like Gir.
