Police in Madhya Pradesh are preparing their first coordinated operation against wildlife trafficking on the state’s railway network. An analysis of six years of seizure data revealed organised interstate networks moving protected freshwater turtles from northern river systems to markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Between 2020 and 2026, the State Tiger Strike Force and Government Railway Police recovered 654 protected animals from passenger trains, including 647 turtles and seven vultures, linked to four organised networks. Officials believe these figures represent only a small portion of the total traffic. Repeat offenders in multiple cases suggest established routes have operated for years.
Authorities are now shifting from isolated checks to a structured response. ADG (Railways) Raja Babu Singh said coordination with wildlife and railway teams is underway to increase vigilance on identified trains and routes. Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests L Krishnamurthy noted that seized turtles are mainly destined for the exotic pet trade.
The turtles originate in the Ganga basin in Uttar Pradesh. Poachers capture Indian softshell and flapshell turtles, which are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act. Madhya Pradesh serves mainly as a transit point, with consignments continuing toward western and eastern states or further abroad. Larger seizures in recent years, such as 311 turtles on the Patna-Indore Express in 2026, indicate growing volumes moved in small batches on passenger trains.
