Train driver hailed for saving Iranian leopard with quick action
The Department of Environment (DoE)praised the “responsible” action of a train driver whose swift response prevented a passenger train from striking an Iranian leopard trapped inside a railway tunnel in the northern Savadkuh region.
The DoE described the driver’s move as a “valuable demonstration of responsibility, commitment to wildlife conservation and respect for environmental considerations” throughout the country’s rail transport network.
It said the rescue of the endangered animal showed that transport infrastructure development and the protection of the country’s natural heritage could go hand in hand.
The department also called for continued cooperation to strengthen environmental safeguards along Iran’s transport corridors and expressed hope that broader collaboration would provide stronger protection for valuable wildlife species, particularly the Iranian leopard.
A video that went viral two days ago showed the train driver’s timely response saving the life of an Iranian leopard after it became trapped inside a tunnel on the Savadkuh railway line.
After spotting the leopard on the tracks, the driver applied the brakes and reduced the train’s speed, giving the animal enough time to leave the tunnel safely and preventing a collision.
The Iranian leopard is one of the country’s flagship wildlife species and is under the threat of extinction, while transport routes, including railway lines, are regarded as among the factors putting pressure on its habitat.