Tiger killed by speeding train near Shencottai in Tamil Nadu
The 250 kg animal was struck by the Palakkad – Thoothukudi Palaruvi Express in the early hours of Wednesday.
A tiger aged between 4 and 5 years died after being hit by a train on the Shencottai – Ariyankaavu ghat section on Wednesday, according to The Hindu.
The incident occurred around 1 a.m. at Poolankudiyiruppu, located between Bhagavathipuram and Ariyankavu, when the Palakkad – Thoothukudi Palaruvi Express struck the animal as it crossed the tracks.
Passersby discovered the carcass with a head injury around 3 a.m., prompting officials from the Tenkasi Forest Division to investigate.
District Forest Officer R. Rajmohan said the right side of the tiger's skull was completely damaged due to the high velocity of the train.
Dr. Rajmohan noted that the 250 kg animal appeared healthy and stated that while camera traps have shown tiger presence in the area, this was a significant loss.
Following an on-the-spot autopsy, the body was incinerated at the site in accordance with National Tiger Conservation Authority protocols.