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Fatal Train Crash Near Bilaspur

Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh): The tragic collision between a passenger train and a freight train near Bilaspur railway station has resulted in 11 fatalities, as confirmed by officials on Wednesday.

The accident took place around 4 PM on Tuesday when the MEMU (mainline electric multiple unit) passenger train was en route to Bilaspur from Gevra, located in the adjacent Korba district.

According to a statement from the Railways, "Eleven individuals have died, and 20 others have sustained injuries in this unfortunate incident."

In response, the railway administration promptly initiated relief and rescue efforts, ensuring that the injured received appropriate medical care at local hospitals.

The force of the collision was so intense that one of the passenger train's coaches ended up atop a cargo train wagon, railway officials reported.

Injured passengers were transported to Apollo Hospital and the Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) in Bilaspur.

A senior railway official stated, "The passenger train collided with the goods train at a speed of 60 to 70 km/h after failing to stop at a red signal."

"An investigation is underway to determine why the loco pilot disregarded the red signal and did not activate the emergency brakes in time, despite the goods train being in clear sight," the official added.

The loco pilot of the passenger train, Vidya Sagar, was among those who lost their lives, while assistant loco pilot Rashmi Raj suffered serious injuries.

The impact was so severe that the passenger train crashed into the brake van, causing significant damage, according to officials.

The guard of the goods train managed to leap from the brake van just in time, sustaining only minor injuries.

Both injured railway staff members have been admitted to the hospital for treatment.

In a statement, railway authorities announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased, Rs 5 lakh for those seriously injured, and Rs 1 lakh for individuals with minor injuries.

A thorough investigation will be conducted by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) to determine the cause of the accident and suggest necessary corrective actions.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed his condolences regarding the tragedy and declared a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.