The Tripura government has announced plans to build four dedicated “elephant passes” at Mungiakami in Khowai district to ensure the safe movement of elephant herds, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma said on Tuesday, as the Forest Department prepares a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the work. The move follows incidents in 2024 when two elephants were killed after being struck by speeding trains in the area, prompting urgent measures to reduce risks to wildlife and people.
Mungiakami, at the foothills of the Atharamura range, has been identified as a key elephant corridor in the state, and the proposed passes aim to keep elephant movement unhindered while minimising dangerous crossings near rail and road infrastructure. Officials say at least four passes will be constructed initially, with the possibility of adding more depending on future assessments and requirements.
Debbarma emphasised the need for scientific measures to mitigate human-animal conflict, especially in regions experiencing rapid infrastructure expansion. The DPR will outline technical and safety specifications intended to balance development with wildlife protection and to reduce collisions and other incidents.
He said the department would press for dedicated wildlife safeguards in large-scale development projects and coordinate with implementing agencies. “We need to engage with agencies undertaking major railway and road projects to ensure adequate measures for the protection and rehabilitation of both villagers and wildlife,” Debbarma said, adding that the matter has already been taken up with the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Earlier the minister inaugurated a workshop on “Human-Animal Interaction,” where he underlined the broader ecological stakes. “If the wild is disturbed, the entire ecological system suffers,” he said, reiterating the state government’s commitment to pursue sustainable development while protecting biodiversity.
Original Source: https://nenews.in/tripura/tripura-to-build-four-elephant-passes-in-khowai-to-prevent-train-accidents/43780/
Category: Tripura,Animesh Debbarma,Elephant passes,Forest Minister,Tripura govt
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Publish Date: 2026-03-03 19:12:00
