At least 11 people were killed and 20 injured after a passenger train and a goods train collided head-on near Lalkhadan in Indian state of Chhattisgarh’s Bilaspur district.
The impact of the collision was so powerful that several coaches mounted one another, sparking panic among passengers and residents nearby.
“A total of 11 people have lost their lives in this accident. Two people are still stuck here.16-17 people are in serious condition. This is a big accident. Everyone is present here and we are carrying out rescue operations," Bilaspur District Collector (DC) Sanjay Agrawal said.
Multiple coaches were derailed in the crash, and the force of the impact caused extensive damage to overhead electric wires and signalling systems, bringing train movement on the route to a halt.
A comprehensive investigation into the incident will be carried out by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) to determine the exact cause and suggest appropriate corrective measures.
According to initial findings, the accident is believed to have occurred when a MEMU local train overshot a signal and crashed into the rear of a stationary goods train.
Following the collision, the railway administration and local authorities rushed rescue and medical teams to the site. Efforts were underway to assist the injured and clear the damaged coaches from the tracks.
“MEMU train coach hit a goods train near Bilaspur station at about 16:00 hours Tuesday. Railways have moved all the resources, and all measures are being ensured for the treatment of the injured," an official said.
The local administration has also reached the spot to coordinate relief operations and support rescue efforts.
Trains movement on the Bilaspur–Howrah line has been completely disrupted, with several services either cancelled or diverted.