Train runs over 3 jumbos in Buxa Tiger Reserve

JALPAIGURI: Three elephants were mowed down by a goods train in the Buxa Tiger Reserve on Monday morning near Rajabhatkhawa Shikari Gate in Bengal's Alipurduar district.

An elephant herd was crossing the track between Rajabhatkhawa and Kalchini stations when an adult female and two calves were hit by the train, running from Guwahati to Siliguri. The female elephant and one of the calves were flung around 15-20ft off the track, while the second calf was ripped apart. Apurba Sen, field director, Buxa Tiger Reserve, said,"There is no doubt that the train's speed was too high. We will take strict legal action."

Following the incident, forest workers led by deputy field director Praveen Kaswan reached the spot. Train movement between Alipurduar and Siliguri came to a halt till noon.