In a heart-stopping incident that underscores the critical importance of vigilance, two railway loco pilots saved the lives of six Asiatic lions from a potential train collision in Gujarat on Sunday. The dramatic event unfolded on the tracks of the Bhavnagar railway division, where the majestic animals were found sitting directly in the path of an oncoming passenger train.
Quick Brake Action Averts Disaster
The near-miss occurred on the Sasangar-Kansiyanesh section. Operating the Veraval-Junagadh passenger train, loco pilot Anish Sheikh and his assistant, loco pilot Farman Hussain, spotted the pride of lions between kilometre markers 112/7 and 112/6. Recognizing the imminent danger, the duo did not hesitate. They immediately slammed the emergency brakes, bringing the train to a screeching halt just in time to prevent a catastrophic accident.
Coordinated Rescue with Forest Department
Following the emergency stop, the train crew acted swiftly to alert both railway officials and personnel from the forest department. A team of forest trackers was quickly dispatched to the location. With careful and patient effort, the trackers gradually guided the lions away from the railway line, moving them to a safe distance. The train was permitted to resume its journey only after the track was confirmed to be completely clear, and it proceeded at a controlled speed as a precaution.
A Testament to Ongoing Wildlife Protection Measures
Railway authorities stated that this event highlights the vital need for strict adherence to speed limits in sensitive areas. As part of sustained wildlife protection initiatives, loco pilots are specifically trained to remain on high alert while passing through designated forest corridors. They are also instructed to maintain close coordination with forest department staff stationed in these regions.
The system appears to be yielding significant results. In the previous financial year, such collaborative efforts between railway and forest teams saved 159 lions from possible train accidents within the same division. The current financial year has already seen 81 lions rescued thanks to the timely actions of alert train crews and responsive forest teams.
