UditVani, Bilaspur : A devastating train accident occurred on Tuesday near Lalkhadan in Bilaspur on the Howrah-Mumbai route when a passenger train collided head-on with a freight train.
The impact was so severe that multiple passenger coaches derailed, causing widespread panic among travelers.
Initial reports confirm four fatalities and over a dozen injuries, with the toll expected to rise as rescue operations continue.
Eyewitnesses said the passenger train’s coaches climbed over the freight engine due to the force of the collision.
Rescue teams, medical units, and railway officials reached the site within minutes.
Injured passengers were rushed to nearby hospitals, while efforts are underway to clear the tracks.
Train services on the busy route have been temporarily suspended, and several trains have been diverted.
The cause of the accident remains unclear, though preliminary investigations point to a possible signal failure.
To assist passengers and their families, the Railways has released 24-hour helpline numbers:
* Champa Junction: 808595652
* Raigarh: 975248560
* Pendra Road: 8294730162
* Accident Site Helplines: 9752485499, 8602007202
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai reviewed the situation via video call with Bilaspur District Magistrate Sanjay Agrawal and directed authorities to ensure immediate medical aid and relief.
The collision has brought rail traffic to a standstill on one of the country’s busiest routes, as emergency teams work round-the-clock to restore normalcy.
