Apparently the only thing really unusual about this incident is the number killed at once. Two stories for the different photos...
7 elephants killed in India by speeding train
Seven elephants killed by speeding train in India
"Elephants are considered sacred in Hindu-majority India and earlier this month the environment and forest ministry declared them a 'national heritage animal' that should be given the same protection as the endangered tiger.
"The accident came as Hindus celebrated the end of an 11-day annual festival marking the birth of Lord Ganesha, the revered elephant-headed god."
7 elephants killed in India by speeding train
Seven elephants killed by speeding train in India
"Elephants are considered sacred in Hindu-majority India and earlier this month the environment and forest ministry declared them a 'national heritage animal' that should be given the same protection as the endangered tiger.
"The accident came as Hindus celebrated the end of an 11-day annual festival marking the birth of Lord Ganesha, the revered elephant-headed god."