Raipur: In the aftermath of the Gevra-Bilaspur MEMU train collision, the Railways has suspended Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) Rashmi Raj. She stated that despite applying the emergency brake, the train failed to stop. The tragic incident claimed the lives of 12 passengers and left 20 others injured.
Injury Delayed Statement
Rashmi Raj, seriously injured in the accident, was initially unable to provide her statement. She was later called to Kolkata for formal recording. Meanwhile, the Principal Chief Safety Officer (PCSO) conducted preliminary questioning at the hospital. At the time of the collision, she was on duty in the train engine. Rashmi Raj reported that just before the accident, the advance signal showed ‘single yellow’, and the master informed her that the upcoming signal was “OK.”
Accident Details
The collision occurred on 4 November around 4 PM, when the MEMU train traveling from Gevra Road to Bilaspur struck the brake van of a stationary goods train at Lalkhadan. Traveling at 48 km/h, the impact pushed the MEMU engine onto a coal-laden wagon. Among the deceased was Loco Pilot Vidyasagar, bringing the death toll to 12. Rashmi Raj also sustained serious injuries.
Investigation by CRS
The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), B.K. Mishra, stayed in Bilaspur for four days to investigate the incident. Due to her critical condition, Rashmi Raj’s statement could not be recorded on-site and was later taken in Kolkata. During the investigation, she was questioned regarding signal operations, speed, visibility, and the condition of the loco cab.
Suspension and Next Steps
Following preliminary inquiry and questioning, Rashmi Raj has been suspended. She is currently undergoing medical treatment, and further action will be determined after the full investigation report is submitted by the Railways.
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