Daijiworld Media Network - Bhind

Bhind, Jan 22: A tragic incident unfolded in Madhya Pradesh’s Bhind district on Thursday morning when a passenger train struck a herd of cows resting on the railway tracks, killing at least 10 to 12 animals and leaving several others seriously injured.

The mishap occurred near the Gohad area as a train travelling from Etawah in Uttar Pradesh to Gwalior passed through the district at high speed.

According to preliminary accounts, the cattle were sitting or lying on the tracks, a recurring and hazardous problem in rural areas where stray animals frequently wander onto railway lines.

Eyewitnesses said the train driver had little opportunity to slow down or apply emergency brakes after the animals came into view, making the collision unavoidable. The force of the impact resulted in multiple fatalities on the spot, while several cows suffered severe injuries, including fractures and deep wounds. Reports suggested that some of the injured animals were pregnant, compounding the tragedy.

Upon learning about the incident, local gau-sevaks and animal welfare volunteers rushed to the site. After sustained efforts, they shifted the surviving injured cows to nearby shelters and veterinary centres for urgent medical attention.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the ongoing issue of stray cattle straying onto railway tracks in states such as Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, posing risks to both animal safety and train operations. While railway authorities have not yet released an official statement, sources indicated that the matter may be reviewed to explore preventive measures such as improved fencing along vulnerable stretches and increased monitoring in cattle-prone zones.

Local residents and animal lovers expressed grief over the loss of lives and called for immediate steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. Meanwhile, efforts by authorities and non-governmental organisations continue to ensure proper treatment and care for the injured animals.