11 people have died in a collision between a passenger train and a goods train in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh. Initial investigations suggest that the passenger train overshot a red signal. The railways have expedited relief and rescue operations and announced compensation.
Chhattisgarh: 11 people died in a collision between a local passenger train and a goods train near Bilaspur station in Chhattisgarh. Hours after the incident, the Railway Board informed that the preliminary investigation suggests the accident was caused by the passenger train overshooting a red signal. Following the accident, the railway administration initiated relief and rescue operations on site and assistance is being provided to the affected passengers.
How the Collision Occurred
According to railway officials, the collision occurred around 4 PM when a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) train was traveling from Gevra in Korba district towards Bilaspur. Between Gatora and Bilaspur stations, this train collided with a goods train from behind. The impact was so severe that many passengers were injured, leading to a chaotic situation at the accident site.
Red Signal Violation Cited as Cause
A press release issued by the Railway Board stated that the preliminary assessment indicates the DEMU train's overshooting of a danger signal is considered the cause of this accident. Describing it as a tragic incident, the railways said that as soon as information about the event was received, relief operations were immediately expedited, and rescue teams transported the injured to the hospital.
Compensation Announced
The Railway Board has announced compensation for passengers affected by this accident. An ex-gratia payment of ₹10 lakh will be given to the kin of the deceased, ₹5 lakh to seriously injured passengers, and ₹1 lakh to those with minor injuries. The railway administration stated that coordination with district authorities and hospitals is ongoing to provide all possible assistance to passengers and their families.
Investigation Underway
The railways stated that a detailed investigation into this accident will be conducted at the level of the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS). The objective of the investigation will be to identify the precise causes of the accident and suggest necessary corrective measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The railway administration said that the final conclusions would emerge only after the investigation is complete.
