OVER 400 SHEEP WERE KILLED UNDER THE WHEEL OF RUNNING TRAIN BANAHI STATION

OVER 400 SHEEP WERE KILLED UNDER THE WHEEL OF RUNNING TRAIN BANAHI STATION

10-AUG-ENG 4

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA----------------------------A devastating train accident occurred near Banahi railway station in Bhojpur district, Bihar, claiming the lives of approximately 400 sheep. This tragic incident took place along the Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay-Patna rail section, near the Sikaria-Banahi stretch, shaking the local community and highlighting serious concerns about livestock safety and railway management. The accident, which unfolded in the early hours, involved two trains colliding with a panicked flock of sheep, resulting in significant loss of life and economic hardship for local shepherds. This article delves into the details of the incident, its causes, the response from authorities, the impact on the affected families, and the broader implications for railway safety in rural Bihar.

The tragedy struck around 2:15 AM on Friday, with the situation escalating by 8:49 AM when the full extent of the damage became apparent. Reports indicate that a large flock of approximately 600 sheep, belonging to seven shepherds from Banakat village under Bihia police station, was caught in a perilous situation. The sheep had been grazing in a field near the Sikaria River, which was swollen due to overnight rain, leaving them vulnerable. Suddenly, a pack of stray dogs and jackals attacked the flock, causing the animals to flee in panic toward the railway tracks.

As the terrified sheep crossed the tracks, two speeding trains—one on the up line and another on the down line—struck the herd. The impact was catastrophic, with 404 sheep killed on the spot and approximately 20 others injured, some of whom are currently receiving treatment. The railway tracks were left stained with blood, creating a grim scene that drew a crowd of shocked villagers and railway personnel. The collision briefly disrupted train operations on the Danapur railway division, with services halted until the carcasses were cleared and the tracks restored.

Several factors contributed to this unfortunate event. The primary trigger was the attack by wild animals, including jackals and stray dogs, which caused the sheep to scatter in a state of confusion and fear. The shepherds, identified as Bharat Pal, Jagdish Bhagat, Uday Narayan Pal, Markande Pal, Manbharan Pal, Jitendra Pal, and Shri Bhagwan Pal, reported that the swollen Sikaria River had forced them to keep their flock in the field overnight, increasing their exposure to such risks. The lack of proper fencing or barriers along the railway tracks further exacerbated the situation, allowing the sheep to access the danger zone unchecked.

The timing of the incident, during the early morning hours amid heavy rain, likely reduced visibility for train drivers, making it impossible to stop in time. Local accounts suggest that the shepherds were unable to control the flock amid the chaos, and the rapid approach of the trains sealed the fate of the animals. This incident raises questions about the adequacy of safety measures, including warning systems and livestock management protocols, in rural railway zones.

Following the accident, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) team arrived at the scene to assess the situation and initiate an investigation. Railway officials worked swiftly to clear the tracks and resume normal operations, though the process was delayed by the sheer number of carcasses. The local administration, including the circle officer and local MLA Rahul Tiwari, was informed by villagers, who expressed their willingness to assist the affected families. The RPF has begun a detailed inquiry to determine whether any safety protocols were breached and to identify measures to prevent future incidents.

The shepherds and villagers have demanded compensation from the railway authorities, estimating their financial loss at around 32 lakh rupees. Each sheep is valued at approximately 8,000 rupees, and with 404 animals lost, the economic impact is substantial. The injured sheep, numbering around 20, add to the shepherds’ burdens as they seek veterinary care and hope for recovery. The community has rallied around the affected families, emphasizing the shepherds’ reliance on livestock rearing as their primary livelihood, a tradition passed down through generations.

The loss of 404 sheep has dealt a severe blow to the seven affected families from Banakat village. For these shepherds, who own no agricultural land and depend entirely on sheep rearing for their income, the incident represents a devastating setback. The estimated loss of 32 lakh rupees threatens their ability to sustain their families, pay for medical treatment for the injured animals, and replenish their flock. The emotional toll is equally significant, as these animals are not just a source of income but also a part of the shepherds’ heritage and daily life.

The broader local economy, which includes small-scale traders and markets reliant on livestock products, may also feel the ripple effects of this tragedy. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for government support, including financial aid and insurance schemes for livestock owners in rural areas prone to such hazards. The shepherds’ plea for compensation underscores the urgent need for a safety net to mitigate the impact of unforeseen disasters.

This train accident near Banahi station is not an isolated event but part of a recurring pattern of livestock-related incidents on Indian railway tracks, particularly in rural regions like Bihar. The lack of fencing, inadequate warning systems, and the frequent movement of livestock across unfenced tracks have been identified as persistent issues. The involvement of wild animals in this case highlights an additional layer of complexity, as rural areas often serve as habitats for such species, increasing the risk of human-animal-livestock conflicts.

The incident has renewed calls for enhanced safety measures, including the installation of barriers, better lighting along tracks, and awareness campaigns for herders. Railway authorities may need to collaborate with local administrations to address these vulnerabilities, especially in flood-prone areas where livestock are forced into proximity with railway lines. The demand for compensation also points to the need for a robust policy framework to support affected communities, ensuring that such tragedies do not lead to long-term poverty.

The local community has expressed deep sorrow and frustration over the incident, with many describing it as a preventable tragedy. Social media and local news outlets have amplified the story, drawing attention to the plight of the shepherds and the broader issue of railway safety. Villagers have emphasized the shepherds’ lack of alternative livelihoods, urging the government and railway officials to act swiftly to provide relief.

Looking ahead, the investigation’s findings will be crucial in determining accountability and shaping future preventive measures. The affected families hope for financial assistance to recover from their loss, while the broader community seeks assurances that such incidents will not recur. The tragedy near Banahi station serves as a stark reminder of the intersection between human activity, wildlife, and infrastructure, calling for a holistic approach to ensure the safety of both livestock and railway operations.

The train accident near Banahi railway station on August 10, 2025, which claimed the lives of 404 sheep, is a heartrending event that has left the Bhojpur community in mourning and the affected shepherds in financial distress. Triggered by a wild animal attack and compounded by the absence of adequate safety measures, the incident underscores the vulnerabilities faced by livestock owners in rural Bihar. While the RPF and local authorities have initiated investigations and cleanup efforts, the focus now shifts to supporting the bereaved families and preventing future tragedies. With an estimated loss of 32 lakh rupees, the shepherds’ plea for compensation highlights the urgent need for policy interventions. This incident serves as a wake-up call for railway authorities and policymakers to prioritize safety and support systems, ensuring that the lives and livelihoods of rural communities are protected from such devastating losses.