A passenger train rammed into a goods train near Bilaspur station this afternoon, resulting in the loss of at least seven lives and injuring around 16 people, as rescue operations continue.
What Happened
- The collision occurred at approximately 4:00 pm on the Bilaspur – Korba section, when a MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) passenger train travelling from Gevra to Bilaspur collided with a stationary or slow moving freight train between Gatora and Bilaspur.
The impact was severe: the front coaches of the passenger train rode over or collided into the wagons of the goods train, causing extensive damage. - Injured passengers were rushed to nearby hospitals including the Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) and Apollo Hospital in Bilaspur. Several are in critical condition.
Response & Relief Measures
- Railways and the South East Central Railway (SECR) division have launched major rescue and relief efforts, deploying medical teams, fire services and railway officials to the site.
- Compensation has been announced: families of the deceased will receive ₹10 lakh each, those seriously injured will get approximately ₹5 lakh and those with minor injuries will be eligible for ₹1 lakh.
- Emergency helpline numbers have been issued for passenger assistance and information.
Emergency Helpline Numbers (Bilaspur Train Accident)
- At Accident Site:
📞 9752485499
📞 8602007202 - Champa Junction:
📞 808595652 - Raigarh:
📞 975248560 - Pendra Road:
📞 8294730162
Passenger Assistance and Support
- These helpline numbers have been activated by South East Central Railway (SECR) for real time passenger information, rescue coordination, and family inquiries.
- Railway control rooms and emergency medical teams are deployed on site.
- Passengers and families are urged to contact these numbers for any information regarding injured or missing persons.
What May Have Caused It
- Initial reports suggest that the passenger train may have passed a red or caution signal or the signalling system may have failed, leading to the crash.
- Technical faults, signalling errors or human error are all being considered, a detailed inquiry by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) has been ordered.
Why This Matters
- Indian Railways handles millions of passengers daily on a vast network, such accidents highlight ongoing challenges in safety infrastructure, signalling technology, and operational oversight.
- Until root causes are identified and rectified, the risk to passenger safety remains significant.
Public Awareness & Advisory
- If you or your family are due to travel via the Bilaspur – Korba section or adjacent routes in the coming days, check for train diversions and schedule changes.
- Rail passengers should remain alert: ensure you know the train number, coach position and follow boarding announcements carefully.
- Reporting unusual train behaviour or any visible hazards (e.g., mis-aligned tracks, abnormal signals or delay announcements without reasons) to railway staff can help avert potential incidents.
- Keep important contact numbers handy the helpline issued by SECR is useful for families seeking information about loved ones.
