Lucknow: A horrific rail accident unfolded near Gonda, Uttar Pradesh when the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express hurtled off its tracks. The grim aftermath revealed that 14 coaches had derailed, resulting in the loss of two lives. As the nation grapples with this tragedy, the burning question remains: Who bears responsibility for this devastating mishap?
The investigation swiftly pointed to the engineering section of the railway as the culprit. The heart-wrenching incident, it turns out, was a consequence of negligence. The fastening of the rail track had been inadequate, causing it to loosen under the scorching heat. The result? A catastrophic derailment that shook the region.
The Grim Details
- Speed and Buckling: At precisely 2:28 pm on July 18, the Dibrugarh Express was hurtling along at 100 kmph. But the track couldn’t withstand the strain. At 70 kmph, the train buckled, sending 16 coaches careening off the rails. Three AC coaches overturned, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Four lives were lost, and over 30 passengers suffered injuries.
- The Keyman’s Warning: Before disaster struck, the keyman stationed at Jhilahi had sounded the alarm. Over the phone, he urgently informed the junior engineer about the track’s weakness. Tragically, no warning message reached the speeding Dibrugarh Express. The result? A collision that could have been averted.
- Missed Opportunity: An hour before the accident, a fault in the track between Motiganj and Jhilahi had been detected. Yet, inexplicably, no warning board was installed. Had it been in place, the train would have slowed to 30 kmph instead of 70 kmph, potentially preventing the catastrophe. But fate had other plans.
Accountability and Lessons
The railway’s investigation committee squarely placed the blame on the engineering department of the Jhilahi section in the Lucknow Railway Division. Their negligence, coupled with missed safety measures, led to this heartrending tragedy.
As the nation mourns, we must reflect on the importance of meticulous track maintenance and swift action. Lives depend on it. Let us honor the victims by ensuring that such preventable disasters never recur.
