By: The Trek News Desk
A major train accident occurred in the Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh on Tuesday evening when a passenger train rammed into a stationary freight train, leading to multiple fatalities and injuries. The tragic collision took place near Lalkhadan, about five kilometres before Bilaspur railway station.
According to officials, six people have been confirmed dead, while several others have sustained serious injuries. Rescue operations are currently underway, with authorities on high alert across all major hospitals in the region.
How the Accident Happened
Preliminary reports suggest that a Raigarh–Bilaspur passenger train collided from behind with a freight train, causing several coaches to derail. The women’s coach and the guard’s compartment suffered the most damage in the crash.
Several passengers were trapped inside the mangled coaches, and rescue teams are using gas cutters to reach those still stuck under the wreckage. Eyewitnesses described the scene as “devastating,” with rescue workers battling through debris and darkness to save lives.
Rescue Teams Deployed, Rail Traffic Suspended
Following the accident, teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were immediately dispatched to the site. Senior railway officials, Bilaspur district collector, and local legislators are also present to supervise ongoing rescue efforts.
All train operations on the Bilaspur–Katni route have been suspended until further notice, affecting several long-distance trains. Authorities have confirmed that the injured passengers have been taken to nearby hospitals, while medical teams are on standby to handle emergencies.
Officials said that poor visibility and heavy debris are making the rescue operation difficult as night falls, but every effort is being made to clear the tracks and locate survivors.
Two Passengers and the Loco Pilot Still Trapped
Bilaspur’s district collector confirmed that two passengers and the loco pilot remain trapped inside the damaged engine compartment. Rescue workers are working around the clock to free them safely.
According to the Bilaspur CPRO, the collision occurred when the Korba Passenger Train rear-ended a freight train that was halted on the same track. An official investigation has been ordered to determine whether the cause was signal failure, technical malfunction, or human error.
Helpline Numbers Released
To assist passengers and their families, the Indian Railways has released the following emergency helpline numbers:
7777857335
7869953300
Families can call these numbers to get updates about their loved ones and information about the rescue operations.
Chief Minister Monitors Situation, Orders Swift Relief
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and has instructed officials to accelerate rescue and relief efforts. The Chief Minister also conducted a video inspection of the accident site and assured full state support to those affected.
Railways Announces Ex-Gratia Compensation
The Railway Ministry has announced ₹10 lakh compensation for the families of each deceased passenger and ₹5 lakh for those seriously injured. Officials have not yet confirmed the total number of passengers on board.
While the exact cause of the collision remains unclear, sources within the railways say a technical or signalling failure may have triggered the disaster. The investigation is ongoing.
Source: News Agencies
