ECoR intensifies drive to prevent cattle run-overs

Bhubaneswar, Oct 13 (UNI) Khurda Road Division of East Coast Railway (ECoR) has intensified its public awareness campaigns in villages located near railway tracks to prevent incidents of cattle run-over, which often cause delays in train operations and pose safety hazards.
During the last five years, as many as 501 cattle run-over cases have been recorded in the Division, while the trend has shown a sharp rise in recent years.
Despite repeated awareness drives and announcements made by railway officials and local administration, instances of villagers allowing cattle to graze freely near railway tracks continue to be reported.
Such incidents not only endanger the animals but also lead to train delays, possible damage to locomotives, and inconvenience to passengers, said ECoR officials.
The division has taken several steps to minimise such mishaps, including fencing off sensitive locations along railway sections and regular awareness programmes in coordination with local bodies and village committees.
Railways once again appeal to villagers and local residents not to graze their cattle or allow animals to stray near railway tracks. It is a punishable offence under the Railway Act, and public cooperation is essential to ensure smooth and safe train operations.
Safety of passengers and animals is a shared responsibility. Khurda Road Division urges everyone to remain alert and keep the railway track zones free from obstructions, said ECoR officials.