South Eastern Railway Launches Major Safety Initiative to Protect Wildlife and Livestock
In a significant move to enhance safety and prevent tragic accidents, the South Eastern Railway (SER) has commenced the installation of specialized metal and net-type steel barriers along railway tracks in the Asanboni-Jharsuguda section under the Chakradharpur division. This initiative aims to safeguard both elephants and cattle from being run over by trains, addressing a long-standing concern in the region.
Extensive Fencing Project Spanning 270 Kilometers
According to officials, the ambitious project involves erecting fencing on either side of the railway tracks over a total length of 270 kilometers. The estimated cost for this comprehensive safety measure is Rs 193 crore. Aditya Choudhary, the senior divisional commercial manager of Chakradharpur, confirmed the details, stating that the barriers are being implemented in phases to ensure effective protection.
"We will be erecting barriers to stop elephants on a 15-km stretch soon. Then, we will follow it up with the cattle barrier," Choudhary explained. This phased approach allows for targeted efforts based on the specific needs and vulnerabilities of different areas.
Dedicated Measures for Elephant and Cattle Protection
The railway authorities have identified separate stretches totaling 15 kilometers in length across key sections for the installation of steel-wire fencing specifically designed to avert elephant-train collisions. These sections include:
- Rourkela-Nuagaon
- Dangoaposi-Rourkela
- Jaraikela-Mahadevsal
- Bagdihi-Dhutra
While the cattle barrier will consist of conventional metal beam fencing, the elephant fencing has been meticulously planned according to the design mandated by the forest department. This ensures that the structures are both effective and compliant with wildlife conservation standards.
Collaborative Efforts with Forest Department
The planning and execution of this project have been a collaborative effort between the Chakradharpur division of the railways and the forest department. A joint survey was conducted in November-December 2025 to identify vulnerable sections for erecting elephant barriers and underpasses. Smita Pankaj, the regional chief conservator of forests (RCCF) of Kolhan division, highlighted the cooperative nature of this initiative.
"Railways will take up the construction work with its funds. Our role was to identify the locations," Smita stated, emphasizing the division of responsibilities that has streamlined the process.
Construction of Elephant Underpasses
As part of the broader safety strategy, the joint survey has identified 11 spots for building dedicated elephant underpasses across nine sections under the railway division. These underpasses are designed to facilitate safe passage for elephants, reducing the risk of collisions with trains.
Saba Alam, deputy conservator of forests-cum-field director of the Elephant Project in Dalma, provided insights into the specifications of these underpasses. "Dimensions of the underpasses generally follow the recommendations of the Wildlife Institute of India (WWI). Normally, the height of an elephant underpass ranges from 6 to 8 metres and a width of 10 to 12 metres," Alam noted, ensuring that the structures are adequate for elephant movement.
Addressing a Pressing Safety Issue
The urgency of this initiative is underscored by recent incidents and historical data. Just recently, three head of cattle were run over by a passenger train on the outskirts of Jamshedpur, highlighting the immediate need for protective measures. Moreover, between 2018 and 2024, nine elephants have died in the Kolhan division in five separate collisions with trains, pointing to a recurring problem that demands attention.
By implementing these barriers and underpasses, the South Eastern Railway aims to significantly reduce such fatalities, promoting both wildlife conservation and railway safety. This project represents a proactive step towards harmonizing infrastructure development with environmental stewardship in the region.
