Sylhet, January 18 – A domesticated elephant that fell into a ditch after being hit by a train in Shibbari area of South Surma Upazila, Sylhet, has been rescued. The operation took place around 2:30 pm on Sunday, coordinated by the Fire Service, Forest Department, local administration, police, the District Livestock Office, and experts from Sylhet Agricultural University.
Locals reported that the injured elephant belongs to Kamrul Islam of Kulaura Upazila in Moulvibazar.
The elephant had been brought to Sylhet a few days ago to participate in a wedding ceremony. On Saturday night (January 17) around 10 pm, while the mahout was attempting to cross the elephant over the railway line, it was struck by the intercity train Kalni Express coming from Dhaka, causing the elephant to fall into a ditch. The mahout was also injured in the incident.
Veterinarians from Sylhet Agricultural University and the Department of Livestock immediately reached the scene and began treatment. The elephant was unable to climb out of the ditch on its own due to injuries to its hind legs. Prolonged time in the ditch left the animal weakened. It was administered steroids, antihistamines, and saline to stabilize its condition.
Mohammad Abdur Rahman, Forest Officer of Sylhet Division, confirmed that after the rescue, the elephant was handed back to its owner. The responsibility for further medical care and management now rests with the owner. Local authorities continue to monitor the incident.
Nurul Islam, Station Master of Sylhet Railway Station, noted that while locals were aware of the train collision, the railway authorities had not received any official report regarding the incident.
