India’s railway ministry has called for a police investigation into the horrific train collision that claimed the lives of 275 people and left over 1,100 injured. Preliminary reports suggest a signal fault as the cause of the tragedy, but the exact details remain unclear. Surprisingly, the Railway Board has recommended involving the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), known for handling high-profile criminal cases, in addition to ongoing inquiries. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has promised to unveil the root cause soon, urging patience until the final report is released.
The devastating accident occurred when the Coromandel Express collided with a goods train due to a signal fault and a change in electronic interlocking. This collision propelled the coaches onto a third track, causing a high-speed crash with the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express. Rescuers worked tirelessly for 18 hours, cutting through the wreckage to save trapped passengers and retrieve bodies. Despite train services being restored on the affected tracks, several passengers remain missing, adding to the already immense tragedy.
Opposition leaders have demanded accountability from Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and called for his resignation. However, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has urged against politicizing the tragedy, emphasizing the need to focus on recovery and investigation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of swift and thorough safety measures in India’s railway system, raising concerns about potential vulnerabilities and the well-being of the passengers.
Source:BBC
