Baripada: In another incident of elephant death in Odisha, a tusker was killed after being hit by a train near Betnoti in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district
As per sources, the incident took place near Agria crossing close to Jagal station late on Saturday night when the elephant had moved onto the tracks, apparently in a bid to cross the line. The elephant died on the spot.
Following the incident, the train was halted briefly at the site before resuming its journey.
Locals said the elephant was near the level crossing and crossing the tracks when the mishap took place. Villagers rushed to the spot and the Forest Range Office at Betnoti was informed about the incident.
Sources said around 30 elephants roam in the forest areas under Betnoti and the tusker had separated from the herd. While roaming in the area, the animal was hit by the Shalimar Express.
Tension prevailed in the area following the incident as locals blamed poor coordination between the forest and railway departments for the mishap.
On being informed, Forest department officials visited the spot and initiated an investigation.
