At least six people were killed and five others injured after a local passenger train collided with a goods train near Bilaspur station in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday evening. The Railway Board said preliminary findings suggest the Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) passenger train overshot a red signal, leading to the tragic accident.
How the Accident Happened
The collision occurred around 4:00 pm between Gatora and Bilaspur stations, when the Gevra–Bilaspur DEMU train rammed into a stationary goods train from behind.
Railway officials confirmed that the impact was severe, resulting in damage to multiple coaches and casualties among passengers traveling in the front compartments.
A press release from the Railway Board stated:
“Passing Signal at Danger (SPAD) by the DEMU train seems to be the reason in the preliminary assessment by railway authorities. Relief and rescue operations were immediately initiated on a war footing.”
Rescue, Relief, and Compensation
Senior railway and district officials rushed to the site soon after the accident to supervise rescue operations and ensure medical assistance to the injured.
According to the Railway Board, the following ex gratia compensation has been announced:
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₹10 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased
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₹5 lakh to those grievously injured
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₹1 lakh to those with minor injuries
All injured passengers have been shifted to nearby hospitals in Bilaspur for urgent treatment, with medical teams deployed on-site.
Emergency Helpline Numbers
For information and assistance, the following helpline numbers have been made operational by Indian Railways:
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Bilaspur: 7777857335, 7869953330
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Champa: 8085956528
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Raigarh: 9752485600
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Pendra Road: 8294730162
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Korba: 7869953330
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Uslapur: 7777857338
Passengers and their families are urged to contact these numbers for real-time updates and assistance.
Inquiry and Next Steps
A detailed inquiry into the cause of the accident will be conducted by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) to determine operational lapses and recommend corrective measures to prevent future mishaps.
The Railway Board assured that all necessary support is being extended to the victims’ families and affected passengers.
“Continuous coordination is being maintained with district authorities and medical teams to ensure prompt relief measures,” the Board stated.
Summary
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Location: Between Gatora and Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh
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Date/Time: Tuesday, 4:00 pm
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Casualties: 6 dead, 5 injured
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Probable Cause: Passenger train overshot red signal
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Relief: ₹10 lakh compensation for victims’ families
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Inquiry: CRS-led investigation underway
