Did the Ara–Sasaram passenger train collide with a rotavator in Bihar's Bhojpur?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Ara–Sasaram train collided with a rotavator in Bhojpur, Bihar.
- No casualties were reported, and the train did not derail.
- Authorities are investigating how the rotavator reached the tracks.
- Dense fog is believed to have contributed to the incident.
- Railway officials are urging safety compliance from local farmers.
Patna, Dec 23 (NationPress) A sense of panic swept through passengers on Tuesday when the Ara–Sasaram train collided with an agricultural implement, a rotavator, on the railway tracks near Udwantnagar in Bhojpur district, Bihar. The incident took place around 7:54 a.m., shortly after the train departed from Ara railway station.
As reported by a railway official, the train left Ara at 7:44 a.m.. About ten minutes later, Gadhani Station Master S.K. Singh was informed by the control room that the train had struck a vehicle on the tracks.
Fortunately, there were no reported casualties, and the train remained on its tracks without derailing.
Railway authorities quickly notified senior officials, and staff were dispatched to the site to manage the situation effectively.
Passengers were safely evacuated and reassured by railway personnel. Eyewitness accounts described a brief moment of chaos inside the train, which was swiftly brought under control. Railway staff relocated passengers to a secure area.
Initial investigations indicate that dense morning fog may have contributed to the accident. Due to poor visibility, the rotavator driver was unable to see the oncoming train in time. The agricultural machinery unexpectedly appeared on the track, resulting in the collision.
Reports suggest that the rotavator driver fell from the vehicle upon impact but fortunately escaped with minor injuries.
Officials mentioned that the train was operating at a controlled speed, and the alert loco pilot's application of emergency brakes helped prevent a more serious incident.
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) later conducted a thorough inspection of the tracks to ensure passenger safety.
After a brief pause and subsequent track clearance, the train resumed its journey at a reduced speed and continued as per its schedule.
The railway administration has begun an inquiry to ascertain how the rotavator ended up on the railway tracks.
Preliminary findings have indicated that the train driver was not at fault; however, officials have cautioned local farmers and residents against bringing vehicles or agricultural equipment close to the railway lines.
In light of the increasing number of railway incidents in Bihar, authorities have mandated enhanced vigilance in regions susceptible to fog and instructed staff to monitor track safety diligently.
Railway officials have appealed to passengers to remain calm during emergencies and to adhere to staff instructions to ensure their safety.