400 sheep killed after Dakshin Express hits flock

Yadadri-Bhongir: In a major tragedy, around 400 sheep were killed after being hit by the speeding Dakshin Express near Bibinagar in Yadadri-Bhongir district on Tuesday. The incident occurred in the Ghatkesar-Kondamadugu stretch, leaving sheep carcasses and remains scattered along the railway track.

According to information available, farmer Balamoni Kistaiah, a resident of Aleenagar under Jooluru village limits in Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri district, had halted near Kondamadugu with his flock of sheep.

The Dakshin Express, travelling from Kazipet towards Hyderabad Nampally, reportedly sounded its horn while approaching the area. Startled by the loud horn, the sheep panicked and ran onto the railway track.

The shepherd attempted to bring the flock under control. However, before he could move the animals away from the track, the speeding train struck them. Around 400 sheep were crushed under the train and died on the spot.

The incident caused heavy financial losses, estimated to run into several lakhs of rupees, to the farmer. Devastated by the loss of his flock, Kistaiah appealed to the State government to provide immediate financial assistance and compensation.

On receiving information about the incident, railway officials and police rushed to the spot. The carcasses were removed from the railway track and train services were restored.

Police registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident.

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Deekonda Ravi Shankar

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