Disruptions are hitting the Tatanagar rail route again, this time due to a herd of elephants making its way across the tracks. To safeguard passengers, the railway administration has announced the cancellation of multiple MEMU and passenger trains for December 18th and 19th, 2025. The affected areas include Tatanagar, Chakradharpur, Rourkela, and Jharsuguda.
Trains that will not be running include the Rourkela–Tatanagar MEMU, the Chakradharpur–Rourkela–Chakradharpur MEMU, the Ranchi–Jharsuguda–Ranchi MEMU, the Rourkela–Jharsuguda–Rourkela MEMU, and the Barampura–Bisra–Barampura passenger service. These cancellations are a necessary precaution.
Reports from railway officials indicate a persistent presence of elephants moving through the Naxal–Rourkela, Chakradharpur–Rourkela, and Rourkela–Jharsuguda stretches. This wildlife movement significantly increases the potential for accidents, prompting this safety-focused decision.
Commuters originating their travel from Tatanagar are advised to verify train schedules and seek alternative transportation options. Checking train status before departing for the station is highly recommended.