BILASPUR: In a devastating railway tragedy that has shaken Chhattisgarh, at least eleven people lost their lives and twenty others sustained injuries when a passenger train collided with a stationary goods train in Bilaspur district on Thursday.
The Moment of Impact
The accident occurred near the Jhagrakhand station when the Raipur-Jagdalpur passenger train, carrying numerous commuters, rammed into a goods train that was standing on the same track. The impact was so severe that two coaches of the passenger train derailed immediately, causing massive damage and trapping passengers inside.
Massive Rescue Operation Launched
Local authorities swiftly launched a large-scale rescue operation involving:
- Multiple National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams
- Railway police and local law enforcement
- Medical teams and ambulances from nearby hospitals
- Local volunteers and railway staff
Rescue workers used specialized equipment to cut through the mangled coaches and extricate trapped passengers throughout the night.
Emergency Medical Response
Medical authorities confirmed that the injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals in Bilaspur and surrounding areas. Critical patients have been referred to larger medical facilities with better trauma care capabilities.
"We have established emergency medical camps at the accident site and are providing immediate first aid to all victims," stated a senior medical officer from Bilaspur.
High-Level Investigation Ordered
Railway authorities have ordered a comprehensive investigation into the causes of this tragic collision. Preliminary reports suggest possible signal failure or human error, but official confirmation is awaited.
Immediate Actions Taken:
- Railway Minister has announced compensation for victims' families
- Senior railway officials have reached the accident site
- Alternative travel arrangements made for stranded passengers
- Helpline numbers established for concerned families
National Mourning and Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating, "Anguished by the loss of lives due to the train accident in Chhattisgarh. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon."
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has announced state compensation for the victims and is monitoring the situation closely.
The railway authorities have assured that restoration work on the affected track will begin immediately once the investigation is complete.
