The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has implemented several innovative measures to mitigate train-elephant collisions, including artificial intelligence (AI) alerts, speed restrictions, increased patrolling, and the unique ‘Plan Bee’ initiative. These efforts have successfully safeguarded 255 elephants from January to September 2026.
Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, the Chief Public Relations Officer of NFR, reported that these elephants were protected across four railway divisions: Alipurduar, Rangiya, Lumding, and Tinsukia. This achievement was made possible through prompt actions and close collaboration with the Forest Department.
A noteworthy component of NFR’s strategy is the AI-based Intrusion Detection System (IDS), which utilizes Distributed Acoustic System (DAS) technology. This system enables real-time alerts when elephant movements are detected near railway tracks, allowing staff to take necessary precautions and inform train crews in sensitive areas.
In addition to the IDS, the zonal railway has implemented temporary speed limits and nighttime restrictions in response to reported elephant movements. The railway has also deployed the ‘Plan Bee’ system at critical locations. This system emits amplified honeybee sounds to deter elephants from approaching the tracks. Furthermore, NFR is constructing underpasses at designated sites to create safer passages for wildlife and minimize the chances of elephants crossing the railway lines.
Alongside these initiatives, railway teams are conducting regular patrols, clearing vegetation in at-risk areas, and putting up warning signs. The railway is also working to prevent human activities that might attract elephants near the tracks. Sharma noted that railway personnel, train crews, pantry staff, and passengers are being educated about the dangers of discarding food waste near the tracks, as this can lure elephants and other wildlife.
The railway is maintaining ongoing communication with the Forest Department. “By ensuring continuous coordination and real-time communication with the Forest Department, we can act swiftly whenever elephant movements are observed,” he added.
Sharma emphasized that all incidents of train-elephant collisions are taken very seriously and are investigated thoroughly according to established safety protocols. “Every case of a train-elephant collision is handled with the utmost seriousness, following prescribed safety procedures. NFR remains committed to enhancing technology-driven monitoring, vigilance, and collaboration with wildlife authorities to protect elephants while ensuring safe and efficient train operations throughout the Northeast,” he concluded.
Anish Mondal, a seasoned journalist with over nine years of experience in transportation reporting, is currently part of the editorial team at Indianexpress.com, focusing on high-impact sectors.
Throughout his career, Anish has gained valuable insights into legislative processes and national governance, starting at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now known as Sansad TV). In 2018, he shifted to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, where he honed his skills in market analysis and corporate reporting for nearly six years. Prior to joining The Indian Express in 2025, he made significant contributions to ETNowNews.com.
Anish’s reporting is supported by a solid academic foundation in communication and the humanities, including a Master of Journalism and Mass Communication from Apeejay Stya University, a Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production from Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication, and a Bachelor of Arts in English Honours from the University of Calcutta.
His areas of expertise include detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and the National Highway networks.
