Chhattisgarh Train Collision: DEMU Train Overshot Red Signal Causing Fatal Accident, Railway Board Confirms

Police and rescue personnel gather at the collision site where MEMU train and goods train crashed

New Delhi:

Following a deadly collision between a local passenger train and a goods train near Bilaspur station in Chhattisgarh that resulted in six fatalities, the Railway Board announced Tuesday that preliminary assessment indicates the passenger train likely disregarded a red signal.

The accident occurred approximately at 4 pm when the DEMU (Diesel Electric Multiple Unit) train traveling from Gevra in Korba district to Bilaspur crashed into the rear of a goods train between Gatora and Bilaspur stations, according to railway officials.

"Passing Signal at Danger by DEMU train appears to be the cause based on preliminary assessment by railway authorities," stated the Railway Board in their official press release.

"An unfortunate collision incident between a goods train and a DEMU local train happened near Bilaspur railway station today. The Railway Administration has immediately launched relief and rescue operations with urgency," the statement continued.

Senior railway officials have arrived at the accident site and are monitoring the situation closely. The collision resulted in six deaths and five injuries, according to official reports.

The injured passengers have been transported to nearby medical facilities for immediate treatment, the statement confirmed.

The Railway Board has announced ex gratia compensation amounting to Rs 10 lakh for families of the deceased, Rs 5 lakh for those seriously injured, and Rs 1 lakh for passengers with minor injuries.

"The Railway Administration is providing all possible support to affected passengers and their families. Ongoing coordination with district authorities and medical teams ensures prompt relief measures," the Board stated.

Additionally, "A thorough investigation into the incident will be conducted by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) to determine the exact cause and recommend necessary preventive measures."

Emergency contact numbers have been established at multiple stations: Bilaspur – 7777857335, 7869953330; Champa – 8085956528; Raigarh – 9752485600; Pendra Road – 8294730162; Korba – 7869953330 and Uslapur – 7777857338, to assist passengers and their families.

"Passengers and relatives can contact these numbers for information and assistance. The Railway Administration continues to closely monitor the situation and is ensuring all possible support to those affected," the Board concluded.