Train-Bus Collision Halts Bengaluru's KR Pura-Whitefield Rail Services
Train operations on the crucial KR Pura–Whitefield corridor in Bengaluru faced significant disruption on Monday morning following a collision between a superfast express train and a BMTC bus. The incident occurred near Hoodi railway station when the SMVT–Tatanagar Superfast Express struck a reversing BMTC bus that had ventured too close to the railway tracks.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Collision
The unfortunate incident unfolded around 9:15 am when the BMTC bus (registration KA 57 6000), attached to the Sadaramangala depot located adjacent to Hoodi railway station, was reversing on a narrow road running parallel to the railway tracks. According to official reports, the bus had traveled barely 100 meters after departing from the depot to commence its scheduled operations for the day. Fortunately, no passengers were aboard the vehicle at the time of the accident.
A BMTC official revealed that the bus, which normally operates on the Kadugodi-Majestic route, was heading toward the Kadugodi bus stand when the driver opted for a shortcut instead of following the designated route. While attempting to reverse along the constricted stretch, the driver miscalculated the available space and failed to maneuver the vehicle safely, resulting in the rear portion of the bus encroaching onto the railway track.
Immediate Aftermath and Railway Response
The express train, en route to Whitefield, subsequently collided with the stationary bus. The bus conductor sustained minor injuries in the impact and received immediate medical attention. South Western Railway (SWR) officials characterized the incident as a clear case of trespassing, emphasizing the dangers of unauthorized proximity to railway infrastructure.
Following the collision, railway authorities managed to move the affected train to Whitefield station, where the locomotive was replaced to ensure operational safety. The journey resumed approximately at 11:05 am, causing a delay of nearly two hours for passengers. The SMVT–Tatanagar Superfast Express typically maintains an average speed of 55 kmph along this corridor.
Legal Proceedings and Safety Concerns
Cantonment Railway Police have registered a formal case against the bus driver for negligence and causing damage to public property. This incident has raised serious questions about road safety protocols near railway tracks and the adherence to designated routes by public transport vehicles.
The disruption affected numerous commuters relying on the KR Pura–Whitefield corridor, highlighting the vulnerability of urban rail networks to such unforeseen incidents. Railway authorities have reiterated the importance of maintaining safe distances from active railway lines and following established traffic regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
