India: Eleven dead as passenger train slams into freight convoy

At least 11 people were killed and around 20 others injured on November 4 when a passenger train collided with a stationary freight train in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh.

The local MEMU (mainline electric multiple unit) train, travelling from the coal township of Gevra to Bilaspur Junction, rammed into the rear of a goods rake at around 4 pm, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

The impact was so powerful that the train’s engine and one of its coaches climbed onto the last wagon of the freight train.

Preliminary reports suggest the crash was caused by a signal breach. The South East Central Railway (SECR) said in an initial statement that the driver may have missed an automated signal.
“Signal passed at danger by the MEMU train seems to be the reason, based on a preliminary assessment by authorities,” SECR said.

The collision left several passengers trapped inside the mangled coaches for a long time before rescue teams arrived. A relief train and medical units were dispatched from Bilaspur shortly after the accident to assist with evacuation and provide first aid.

Bilaspur district collector Sanjay Agrawal confirmed that the injured were taken to the Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences and nearby private hospitals.

Officials said the exact cause of the crash would be determined by the Commissioner of Railway Safety, who will conduct a detailed investigation and recommend preventive measures. The incident marks the sixth fatal railway accident in India this year, excluding those at level crossings.

Railway officials said operations on the affected line were suspended as rescue efforts continued through the evening, with authorities working to restore services once the tracks are cleared.