Tragic Accident in Rajkot: Vande Bharat Express Collision Claims Two Lives
In a devastating incident, two young individuals lost their lives, and another was left in critical condition after being struck by the Veraval-Sabarmati Vande Bharat Express in Rajkot. The tragic event unfolded on Monday, sending shockwaves through the local community and raising concerns about railway safety measures.
Details of the Fatal Collision
The accident occurred at precisely 4:45 pm on Monday, within the section between Ribada and Bhaktinagar stations, which falls under the Bhavnagar Division of the Western Railway. According to railway officials, the high-speed train came to a halt at 4:48 pm, remaining at the accident site for a total of 29 minutes before resuming its journey towards Rajkot and subsequently to Sabarmati station in Ahmedabad.
Police have identified the deceased as Sandeep Patel, aged 20, and Sandeep Koli, aged 23. The third victim, Kapil Patel, aged 23, is currently undergoing treatment and is reported to be in critical condition, having sustained multiple severe injuries in the collision.
Immediate Response and Hospitalization
Upon receiving news of the incident, a team from the Rajkot City Police swiftly arrived at the scene. Bystanders played a crucial role by promptly calling for an ambulance, which transported all three youths to the Rajkot Civil Hospital for urgent medical attention.
A senior doctor at the hospital confirmed to sources that two of the individuals were declared dead upon arrival, while the third remains in a precarious state, fighting for his life in the intensive care unit.
Background of the Victims
Investigations revealed that all three youths were employed at a factory located in close proximity to the railway tracks in the Gondal Chowkdi area of Rajkot city. This detail underscores the potential risks faced by workers in industrial zones near active railway lines, prompting calls for enhanced safety protocols and public awareness campaigns.
The local community has expressed profound grief over the loss of these young lives, with many urging authorities to implement stricter measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. As the investigation continues, questions are being raised about the adequacy of existing railway safety infrastructure and the need for more robust preventive strategies.