Tragic Train Collision in Chhattisgarh Claims Lives and Injures Many
Overview of the Incident
The recent collision between a passenger train and a goods train near Bilaspur railway station in Chhattisgarh has resulted in a rising death toll, now reported at 11, with 20 others sustaining injuries, according to reports from local railway authorities.
Rescue Operations Underway
Reports indicate that two to three individuals remain trapped in the wreckage, prompting rescue teams to cut through the train coach to reach them.
The accident occurred around 4 PM when the Mainline Electric Multiple Unit passenger train was en route from Gevra Road to Bilaspur.
Details of the Collision
According to Bilaspur Collector Sanjay Agrawal, the last coach of the goods train collided with the first coach of the passenger train.
Suskar Vipul Vilasrao, the Chief Public Relations Officer for Bilaspur Railway, stated that having one train follow another on the same track is part of standard operations. However, the precise cause of the collision will be determined following an inquiry by the railway safety commissioner.
Government Response and Compensation
Chhattisgarh's Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has announced a compensation package of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased, along with free medical treatment for the injured, who will also receive Rs 50,000 each.
#WATCH | Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh | Operations resume at the site where an MEMU train collided with a stationary goods train yesterday, killing 8 and injuring several others. pic.twitter.com/VwiraZTIFj
— News Media (@NewsMedia) November 5, 2025
The South East Central Railway has committed to conducting a thorough investigation and has announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives. Passengers with serious injuries will receive Rs 5 lakh, while those with minor injuries will be compensated with Rs 1 lakh.
Political Reactions
Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel expressed his sorrow over the incident, criticizing the state government for prioritizing coal transportation over public safety. He remarked that human life seems to hold less value than coal.
Congress leader TS Singh Deo has called for the resignation of Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, attributing the accident to severe negligence and highlighting the frequency of railway accidents across the country.
Krishna Murty Bandhi, a BJP leader, also raised concerns about how both trains were allowed on the same track, questioning the safety protocols in place.