On Tuesday afternoon, at least eight people were killed and 11 were injured in a tragic collision between two trains near Bilaspur and 11 injured. A local passenger train rammed into a stationary goods train. The incident took place about 4 pm when the MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) running from Gevra in Korba district towards Bilaspur overshot a red signal and crashed into the goods train from behind, officials said.
The collision occurred a few kilometres from Bilaspur city, home to the headquarters of South-East Central Railway (SECR). The impact was so powerful that a passenger coach mounted the wagon of the goods train, the Hindustan Times reported, citing a railway official
As per the report by the Hindustan Times. Inspector General (Bilaspur Range) Sanjeev Shukla said, “So far, eight bodies have been recovered, including four women and four men.” Rescue operations are still underway, and the toll could rise once the debris is cleared, he added.
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Bilaspur Collector Sanjay Agrawal said injured passengers were sent to Apollo Hospital and the Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences in Bilaspur. " One of the injured was reported to be in critical condition," he pointed out.
Preliminary cause and investigation
In a statement on Tuesday evening, the Railway Board said, “Passing Signal at Danger by MEMU train seems to be the reason in the preliminary assessment by railway authorities.” The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) will conduct a detailed investigation to establish the exact cause and suggest preventive steps, the report stated further.
The statement also said, "The Railway administration has taken swift action to initiate relief and rescue operations on a war footing", adding that senior railway officials are supervising the situation on-site.
Compensation and aid announced
An ex-gratia compensation of ₹10 lakh has been announced for the next of kin of the deceased, ₹5 lakh for those grievously injured and ₹1 lakh for passengers with minor injuries. “The Railway Administration is extending all possible assistance to the affected passengers and their families. Continuous coordination is being maintained with district authorities and medical teams to ensure prompt relief measures,” officials said.
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Chief Minister expresses grief
Expressing deep sorrow, Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai wrote on X, “Information has been gathered from the Bilaspur District Collector, and instructions have been issued to provide them with all possible assistance and relief efforts. The state government stands with the affected families during this difficult time.” He further added, “Teams from the railways and administration have immediately sprung into action for relief and rescue operations. All necessary resources and medical assistance are being ensured for the treatment of the injured. The state government is closely monitoring the situation with complete vigilance and sensitivity.”
