Train-Stopping Moment: Hero Loco Pilots Stop In Time To Allow Herd Of Elephants Cross Tracks

Viral News: A surprising video has surfaced on social media that shows a herd of elephants crossing the railway track and how the loco pilots stopped the train on time and allowed the elephants to cross.

The viral video of elephants crossing railway tracks was shared on social media on October 18 by Supriya Sahu, IAS. 

The viral video also comes with an interesting caption that says, ‘Incredible sight! A big shout-out to Loco Pilot Das and Assistant Loco Pilot Umesh Kumar of the 15959 Kamrup Express for their swift and heroic action on 16th October in saving a herd of about 60 elephants crossing the railway tracks between Habaipur and Lamsakhang by applying emergency brakes. Pilots were alerted through an artificial intelligence-based detection system that comprehensively covers the track. This incident spotlights the importance of technology to prevent such near-misses. Tamil Nadu’s AI-based surveillance system implemented by us in Madukkarai, Coimbatore, has also successfully prevented elephant-train collisions through 24/7 monitoring with thermal cameras and real-time alerts. Implementing similar solutions across vulnerable tracks can significantly reduce fatalities and enhance coexistence between wildlife and human infrastructure.’ 

Elephants Crossing Railway Track Viral Video

After the swift actions of the loco pilots of the 15959 Kamrup Express prevented a tragic collision with a herd of elephants. The incident, which occurred between Habaipur and Lamsakhang, highlights the crucial role of technology in safeguarding wildlife and human lives.

Thanks to an advanced artificial intelligence-based detection system that monitors the tracks, the loco pilots, Das and Umesh Kumar, were alerted to the presence of the elephants. Without hesitation, they applied the emergency brakes, averting a potential disaster. The herd, numbering around 60 elephants, was able to safely cross the tracks.

This viral video shows us the importance of investing in innovative solutions to mitigate the risk of wildlife-train collisions. Similar AI-based surveillance systems, such as the one successfully deployed in Madukkarai, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, can play a vital role in preventing these accidents.

Netizens Reaction to Elephant Crossing Viral Video

Netizens in the comment section of the viral video seem to be praising the efforts and timely action of loco pilots of the train. One user wrote, ‘Loco Pilots Das and Umesh Kumar deserve immense praise for their swift response. It's inspiring to witness AI technology playing a vital role in saving lives. This demonstrates that we can harmonise progress with environmental protection. Let's hope for more such innovative solutions!’.

Another viewer wrote, ‘Great sight! AI applications can make wonders if the use cases are properly defined and developed with necessary guardrails. Understand the usage of thermal cameras, but there’s a huge improvement that can be done using surveillance cameras with YOLO-based vision models. Happy to share.’

With the help of such technology across vulnerable railway tracks, we can significantly reduce fatalities and promote harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. The timely intervention of the loco pilots in this instance serves as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that technology can have on conservation efforts.