Bilaspur Train Crash Investigation: Inexperienced Loco Pilot Ignored Multiple Warning Signals

A formal investigation into the Bilaspur train collision commenced on Thursday following the tragic incident.

Bhopal:

The devastating train crash in Chhattisgarh's Bilaspur on Tuesday, which claimed 11 lives and left 20 critically wounded, raises numerous unanswered questions. Preliminary findings have begun to reveal why this catastrophic accident occurred.

The incident took place when the Korba-Bilaspur MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) passenger train collided with a stationary freight train near Lal Khadan, in proximity to Gatora Railway Station.

The collision was so severe that the MEMU passenger train mounted the freight train, distorting steel components and tearing apart coaches, creating a scene of immense devastation.

Sources informed NDTV that the MEMU train disregarded multiple caution and danger signals before crashing into the freight train. Initial investigations suggest a disturbing combination of human error and misjudgment.

According to sources, the MEMU train departed Gatora Station at 76 kilometers per hour (kmph) after receiving a green signal. Subsequently, it passed through double yellow and single yellow signals, both indicating speed reduction, but maintained its velocity.

Investigators confirmed that despite receiving a red danger signal shortly before impact, the train failed to stop. The MEMU was traveling at approximately 50 kilometers per hour when it struck the stationary freight train occupying the same track.

Another concerning discovery is that the MEMU train's loco pilot, Vidyasagar, had only been promoted to passenger service duties one month prior, suggesting his inexperience may have contributed to the disaster.

On the curved section of track, he potentially misinterpreted a signal intended for an adjacent line as being meant for his train – a fatal error leading to the collision.

Vidyasagar perished in the crash, while assistant loco pilot Rashmi Raj sustained serious injuries and remains in critical condition at a hospital.

The formal investigation began Thursday, with a comprehensive report expected within days.

A five-member team led by Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) Brijesh Kumar Mishra initiated the inquiry at the Bilaspur DRM office, interviewing 19 railway employees and officials connected to the accident. The investigation will continue for two days, with the detailed findings to be submitted to the Railway Board within three days.

Those called for questioning include Assistant Loco Pilot Rashmi Raj, Goods Train Guard Sunil Kumar Sahu, Assistant Loco Pilot Puneet Kumar, MEMU Manager AK Dixit, Goods Train Manager Shailesh Chandra, and various staff members responsible for train operations and signaling systems.

Each individual has been requested to provide relevant documentation and logs pertaining to the movement of both trains involved in the incident.