What Caused the Goods Train Derailment Near Muzaffarpur Junction?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Train operations disrupted due to derailment.
- No casualties reported in the incident.
- Quick action by the loco pilot averted a larger disaster.
- Ongoing efforts by railway officials to restore normalcy.
- Investigation to determine the cause of the derailment.
Patna, June 16 (NationPress) Train operations faced interruptions on Monday evening when four wheels of a goods train derailed near the Route Relay Interlocking (RRI) section of Muzaffarpur Junction around 6 p.m. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
The goods train was on its way back to Narayanpur after unloading track ballast (stones) and had originated from the Madipur side.
A Railway official indicated that a wagon had gone off the track just before the derailment, leading to a loss of balance.
A Group-D railway employee present on the wagon managed to jump to safety and escaped unharmed.
The loco pilot reacted promptly, halting the train immediately, which prevented a more serious incident.
As a result of the derailment, the Lichhavi Express is currently stranded at Madipur Outer, the Muzaffarpur–Porbandar Express has been paused, and the Samastipur–Siwan Passenger is also halted at Silaut, along with several other express and passenger trains.
Railway officials are working diligently to restore normal operations.
All wagons in front of the derailed one have been cleared, and efforts are ongoing to remove the rear wagons.
Sonpur Division DRM Vivek Bhushan Sood, along with officials from Engineering, Operating, Carriage and Construction, and personnel from RPF and GRP, arrived promptly at the site to supervise the restoration process.
According to DRM Sood, "The goods train had gone to unload ballast. The accident occurred while it was returning. Currently, the main line is shut. An Accident Relief Train (ART) has been summoned and will arrive shortly. The cause is yet to be determined, and a comprehensive investigation will follow."
The derailment occurred while the goods train was traveling at a low speed of 10 kmph, which significantly reduced the impact.
Thanks to the quick action of the train crew, a larger disaster was averted.
Railway officials will be taking statements from drivers, a guard, linemen, and other personnel who were present during the derailment.