Valsad-Hisar Express Hits Car on Tracks in Ratlam; Inquiry Ordered
A major disaster was averted when the Valsad-Hisar Express collided with a car stranded on tracks in Ratlam. An inquiry into gate staff negligence is underway.
A catastrophic disaster was narrowly avoided in Madhya Pradesh after the Valsad-Hisar Express (04728) collided with a car that had become stranded on the railway tracks. The incident occurred at level crossing gate number 192, located on the Banjali-Sejawata bypass in Ratlam.
Quick Reflexes Avert Tragedy
According to Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Ashwini Kumar, the situation could have been far worse if not for the alertness of the train's loco pilot. Upon spotting the vehicle on the tracks from a distance, the pilot immediately acted to reduce the speed of the Express, significantly mitigating the impact of the collision.
How the Collision Happened
The vehicle involved was driven by Pranav Upadhyay. Reports indicate that the car became trapped on the railway lines just as the level crossing gate was closing, leaving the driver with no way to exit the tracks before the oncoming train arrived.
Emergency Response and Recovery
Following the crash, senior officials from both the district administration and the railway department rushed to the scene to manage the situation. To clear the line and restore rail traffic, a crane was deployed to lift and remove the damaged car from the tracks. Once the debris was cleared, normal train operations were resumed in the area.
Investigation into Negligence
While the immediate danger has passed, the incident has raised serious questions regarding the safety protocols at the crossing. DRM Ashwini Kumar has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the matter following allegations that the gate staff on duty were negligent.
The investigation will specifically focus on:
- The exact circumstances that led to the car becoming stranded on the tracks.
- Whether the personnel responsible for operating the level crossing gate followed standard operating procedures.
- The role of the on-duty staff in allowing the vehicle to enter the danger zone.
Further details regarding the inquiry's findings are currently awaited.