Prayagraj Train Tragedy Claims Five Lives in Horrific Sequence of Events
A devastating railway accident in Prayagraj on Wednesday evening resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including four passengers who were struck by a passing train after alighting from a stationary one. The incident, which unfolded in the Karchana area near the Pachdevra halt overbridge, has raised serious concerns about passenger safety and railway protocols.
Initial Incident: Kalka Express Halts After Running Over a Man
At approximately 6:15 PM, the Kalka Express (train number 12312), traveling in the down direction, encountered a tragic situation. The guard and loco pilot of the train spotted a body lying on the tracks, prompting an immediate emergency stop. According to North Central Railway Chief Public Relations Officer Shashikant Tripathi, the train was halted following standard safety procedures, and the control room was promptly notified of the incident.
Passengers Disembark and Face Fatal Consequences
While the Kalka Express remained stationary, several passengers from the general coaches disembarked to investigate the reason for the halt. In a catastrophic turn of events, these passengers stepped onto adjacent tracks. At around 6:47 PM, the Purushottam Express (train number 12801), traveling in the opposite (up) direction, passed through the same location. Tragically, four of the passengers who had alighted from the Kalka Express were struck by the Purushottam Express and died instantly on the spot.
Official Statement and Investigation Details
Chief PRO Shashikant Tripathi provided a detailed account of the sequence on Thursday, emphasizing the timeline and the actions taken. He stated that the initial victim was run over by the Kalka Express, leading to the chain of events. The railway authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to determine the exact causes and to review safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Key Points from the Tragedy:
- The first fatality occurred when a man was run over by the Kalka Express near the Pachdevra halt overbridge.
- Passengers alighted from the stationary train to investigate, unaware of the approaching Purushottam Express.
- Four passengers were killed on the spot after being struck by the Purushottam Express.
- The total death toll stands at five, including the initial victim.
This incident underscores the critical importance of adhering to railway safety guidelines and avoiding disembarkation from trains unless instructed by authorities. The North Central Railway is expected to issue further updates as the investigation progresses, with a focus on enhancing passenger awareness and operational protocols.
