18 coaches of Howrah-CSMT Express derail after collision with goods train
According to preliminary accounts, the passenger train heading in the opposite direction was affected when the freight train derailed, resulting in a collision.
The Howrah-CSMT Express, a key passenger train en route to Mumbai, was involved in a devastating derailment on July 30, 2024. The accident occurred around 3:45 AM in Jharkhand, near the Chakradharpur division of Indian Railways. This catastrophic incident resulted in the derailment of 18 coaches, leading to the tragic deaths of 2 individuals and injuring at least 20 others.
Details of the Howrah-CSMT Express Derailment
The derailment of the Howrah-CSMT Express happened when a goods train, which had previously derailed, came into contact with the passenger train. The collision was severe, causing 16 passenger coaches, one power car, and one pantry car to be thrown off the tracks. Eyewitnesses reported a significant impact, resulting in extensive damage to the train and chaos among the passengers.
Emergency response teams and ambulances were promptly dispatched to the scene to carry out rescue operations. Railway medical teams administered first aid to the injured passengers at the site, with many being transported to local medical facilities in Chakradharpur for further treatment. The swift response of the railway and medical teams was crucial in managing the immediate aftermath of the disaster.
In response to the incident, Indian Railways activated their emergency protocols. Accident Relief Medical Equipment (ARME) teams were mobilized to assist with the rescue and recovery efforts. Senior railway officials, including the Additional Divisional Railway Manager (ADRM) of Chakradharpur, were present to oversee the operations and provide necessary support.
Impact and Ongoing Investigations
The derailment of the Howrah-CSMT Express has led to significant disruptions in regional rail services. Several trains, including the Howrah-Kantabanji Ispat Express, Kharagpur-Dhanbad Express, and Howrah-Barbil Express, were canceled due to the incident. Passengers traveling on these routes have been advised to check for updates and make alternate travel arrangements.
Indian Railways has set up helpline numbers to assist passengers and concerned families affected by the derailment. The helpline numbers are as follows:
- Tatanagar: 06572290324
- Chakradharpur: 06587 238072
- Rourkela: 06612501072, 06612500244
- Howrah: 9433357920, 03326382217
- Ranchi: 0651-27-87115
- Mumbai: 022-22694040
The cause of the derailment of the Howrah-CSMT Express is currently under investigation by authorities. Preliminary reports suggest that the collision occurred when the derailed freight train impacted the passenger train traveling in the opposite direction. However, the exact reasons behind the derailment are still being examined.
Recent Rail Safety Concerns in India
The Howrah-CSMT Express derailment highlights ongoing concerns regarding railway safety in India. Recent incidents have raised alarms about the reliability and safety of the country’s rail network.
- Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express Derailment (July 2024): A passenger train in Uttar Pradesh derailed near Gonda, leading to 30 injuries and 3 fatalities. The derailment of several coaches sparked concerns about the adequacy of current safety measures.
- Alwar Derailments (July 2024): Multiple derailments of cargo train wagons occurred in Alwar, Rajasthan, on consecutive days. Although these accidents were limited to sidings and did not severely impact mainline traffic, they still drew attention to potential safety issues.
- Daniyawan Station Disruption (July 2024): A cargo train derailment near Daniyawan station in Patna caused significant delays. Six carriages came off the tracks, but fortunately, there were no casualties.
- Palghar Goods Train Derailment (July 2024): A goods train carrying six carriages derailed at Palghar station, resulting in delays for trains traveling between Mumbai and Surat. The incident, attributed to a rail fracture, highlighted the need for ongoing infrastructure maintenance.
The derailment of the Howrah-CSMT Express underscores the critical need for enhanced safety measures and regular maintenance to prevent such tragedies. The investigation into this incident, along with recent derailments, emphasizes the importance of addressing railway safety concerns to protect passengers and ensure the reliable operation of India’s rail network.
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