Elephants stray onto Nilgiri mountain Railway track

Forest officials launched efforts to drive away a herd of 11 elephants that strayed onto the Nilgiri Mountain Railway track near Runnymede in Coonoor, causing concern among authorities on Wednesday.
According to officials, the movement of elephants towards human settlements and transport routes has increased due to drought conditions prevailing in the forests of the Nilgiris district, forcing the animals to migrate in search of food and water.
The herd was spotted camping on the railway tracks along the Ooty Mountain Railway route near Coonoor, prompting immediate action from the Forest Department to ensure safety and prevent disruption to train services.
Officials initiated operations to guide the elephants back towards the plains and deeper forest areas. Continuous monitoring is being carried out to prevent the herd from returning to the railway track.
Forest personnel stated that efforts are ongoing to safely drive the elephants back into their natural habitat and avoid any potential danger to both wildlife and the public.