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Darbhanga Express Collides Near Chennai
Tamil Nadu Train Accident: Darbhanga Express Collides with Goods Train
Introduction: Collision at Kavarapettai Near Chennai
A tragic train accident occurred on the night of October 11, 2024, when the Mysuru-Darbhanga Express (Train No. 12578) collided with a stationary goods train near Kavarapettai, close to Gummidipoondi in the Chennai Division of Southern Railway. The accident, which happened around 8:30 p.m., was reportedly due to a signal failure, causing 13 coaches to derail. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far, though some passengers sustained injuries.
Accident Details: Signal Failure and High-Speed Impact
According to railway sources, the express train was traveling at a speed of 75 kmph when it was mistakenly directed to a loop line instead of the main line at Kavarapettai. The train then rammed into the rear end of a stationary goods train that was already parked on the loop line.
The impact of the collision was so severe that one of the parcel vans caught fire, and 13 coaches were derailed. The train had just passed Ponneri railway station at 8:27 p.m., where it was given a green signal to continue its journey on the main line. However, due to the signal failure, it was diverted onto the loop line, leading to the crash.
Response: Emergency Services and Safety Measures
The Southern Railway spokesperson confirmed that the express train’s crew members were unharmed, and the fire in the parcel van was successfully extinguished. Emergency services, including doctors, ambulances, and rescue officials, swiftly arrived at the site to assist the injured. Those who sustained injuries were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Train services in both directions have been severely impacted due to the accident, with several train routes being diverted. Helpline numbers (044-25354151 and 044-24354995) have been set up by the Chennai Division of Southern Railway to provide information and assistance to passengers and their families.
Comparisons with Previous Accidents: Odisha Tragedy
This incident bears striking similarities to the Balasore train accident in Odisha, which occurred on June 2, 2023. The Balasore accident, also involving a collision between an express train and a stationary train, claimed the lives of nearly 290 passengers and left over 900 others injured. While the Tamil Nadu accident has not resulted in any fatalities, it highlights ongoing concerns regarding signal failures and railway safety protocols.
Train Diversions Following the Accident
Following the Mysuru-Darbhanga Express accident, several train services have been diverted to alternative routes. The revised routes for affected trains are as follows:
- Train No. 12551 SMVT Bengaluru – Kamakhya AC Express, scheduled to depart at 8:50 a.m. on October 12, 2024, will take a diverted route via Dharmavaram and Vijayawada, skipping stops at Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Perambur, and Gudur.
- Train No. 12295 SMVT Bengaluru – Danapur Sanghamitra Express, scheduled to leave at 9:15 a.m. on October 12, 2024, will also follow a diverted route via Dharmavaram and Kazipet, bypassing several stops including Krishnarajapuram, Bangarpet, Arakkonam, and others.
- Train No. 12509 SMVT Bengaluru – Guwahati Express, departing at 11:40 p.m. on October 11, 2024, will be diverted through Melpakkam and Renigunta, with additional stoppages at Tiruttani but skipping Perambur and Arakkonam.
Conclusion: Investigation and Recovery Efforts
Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the signal failure that led to the Mysuru-Darbhanga Express accident. As railway officials continue to assess the damage and restore normal operations, the Southern Railway has promised to ensure the safety of passengers and take corrective measures to prevent such accidents in the future.
While the collision could have resulted in much worse consequences, the absence of fatalities and the quick response from emergency teams have been praised. Nonetheless, this accident serves as a reminder of the need for enhanced railway safety measures and the timely upgrading of infrastructure.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available information regarding the Tamil Nadu train accident involving the Mysuru-Darbhanga Express. For official updates, readers are advised to refer to statements from railway authorities and government officials.
