NEW DELHI, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Four elephants were killed early Monday after being run over by a speedy goods train in India's eastern state of Odisha, officials said.

The elephants were hit on the railway track in Jharsuguda district, about 326 km northwest of Bhubanewsar, the capital city of Odisha.

"Early today at around 3:30 a.m. (local time), a herd of elephants was crossing the railway line near Bagdihi Railway Station and suddenly a speedy goods train hit four of them, killing them on the spot," said Sushant Kumar, a forest official posted at Jharsuguda. "On inspection, the dead were identified as two adults and two calves."

The area is said to be an elephant corridor.

Following the accident, authorities rushed forest officials, police and veterinary surgeons to the spot to remove carcasses and conduct an autopsy.

Forest officials said the railway department has been duly informed to reduce train speed in the area and requested to follow guidelines including making continuous hooting to scare wild animals.