The Chhattisgarh train collision that left multiple passengers injured on Sunday may have been caused by a signal violation, according to a preliminary statement from the Indian Railways. Officials confirmed that one of the trains involved likely overshot a red signal, leading to the crash near Kantabanji station in the Balangir district.
What Happened
The accident occurred when a goods train collided with a stationary passenger train that was waiting on the same track. The impact caused several coaches to derail, injuring passengers and disrupting rail traffic in the region.
Rescue teams, including the Railway Protection Force (RPF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local police, were deployed to the site. Emergency medical services rushed the injured to nearby hospitals.
Railways’ Preliminary Findings
A senior railway official said that initial data from the control room and signal systems indicated that the driver of the goods train may have missed or ignored a red signal, resulting in the rear-end collision.
“The goods train appears to have overshot the red signal and hit the stationary passenger train. A detailed investigation is underway,” the Railways said in a statement.
The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) has been directed to conduct a high-level inquiry to determine the exact cause, including possible technical or human errors.
Injuries and Casualties
Early reports suggest that over 10 passengers were injured, though no deaths have been officially confirmed. The driver of the goods train reportedly sustained serious injuries and has been taken for treatment.
Local eyewitnesses described a loud explosion-like sound, followed by panic as smoke and debris filled the area. Rescue operations continued late into the night.
Restoration Work Underway
Teams have been deployed to clear debris and restore traffic on the affected line. Several trains on the Bilaspur–Titlagarh route were delayed or diverted following the accident.
Railway officials stated that normal train movement is expected to resume after safety checks and track repairs.
Government and Railway Response
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw expressed concern and directed officials to ensure quick medical aid for the injured. He said on X (formerly Twitter):
“Rescue operations are underway at full speed. The injured are being provided the best possible treatment. CRS inquiry has been ordered.”
Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh also reviewed the situation and offered full support to the Railways and rescue teams.
Similar Past Incidents
The Chhattisgarh crash comes months after the Balasore train tragedy in Odisha, where over 290 people died due to a signal failure. The recurrence of such accidents has renewed calls for advanced signaling systems and stricter compliance protocols for train operators.
Conclusion
The Chhattisgarh train crash appears to have been caused by a red signal violation, as per early railway reports. While a final investigation will confirm the root cause, the incident underscores the urgent need for better safety enforcement and automatic warning systems across India’s vast rail network.
Authorities have assured full medical and financial support to the affected passengers and promised accountability for any operational lapses once the inquiry concludes.
❓ FAQs
Q1. Where did the Chhattisgarh train accident occur?
Near Kantabanji station in Balangir district, Chhattisgarh.
Q2. What caused the crash?
Preliminary reports suggest the goods train overshot a red signal, colliding with a stationary passenger train.
Q3. How many people were injured?
At least 10 passengers sustained injuries, with some in serious condition.
Q4. Who is investigating the incident?
The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) has ordered a full inquiry into the cause of the accident.
Q5. Has train service resumed?
Partial restoration work is underway; full services will resume after safety inspections.
Published on : 5th November
Published by : SMITA
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