NEWS – To address the alarming toll of 186 elephant deaths on rail tracks between 2009–10 and 2024, the Centre has undertaken a first-of-its-kind joint survey involving the Union Environment Ministry, Ministry of Railways, and 14 state forest departments. The survey, spanning 127 railway stretches over 3,452 km, aims to create a nationwide framework to prevent wildlife-train collisions.

HIGHLIGHTS

Key Survey Findings & Action Plan

• 77 critical stretches identified for urgent mitigation, based on past mortalities and wildlife movement patterns.
• 705 mitigation structures proposed:
  • 503 ramps & level crossings
  • 72 bridge extensions/modifications
  • 65 underpasses, 22 overpasses
  • 39 barricades/fencing/trenching
  • 4 exit ramps

State-wise Highlights

• Assam: 131 level crossings with ramps proposed; state has India’s 2nd highest elephant population (5,719).
• Maharashtra: 125 level crossings with ramps.
• Uttar Pradesh: 92 level crossings planned.
• Karnataka has the highest wild elephant count: 6,049 (2017 Census).

Use of Technology & Future Planning

• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) installed over 141 km; 926 km under implementation in 9 railway zones.
• Largest stretch: 207.8 km in Odisha’s Sambalpur division.
• Total IDS coverage sanctioned: 1,158 km at a cost of ₹208 crore.
• Rail staff trained on elephant ecology by Wildlife Institute of India for effective response.

Aim: Build a comprehensive, tech-integrated framework to protect elephants and wildlife across India’s railways.