Loop Line Error Suspected in Odisha Train Tragedy: Preliminary Investigation

Balasore: Preliminary investigations into the Odisha train tragedy indicate that the Coromandel Express mistakenly entered the loop line and collided with a parked goods train instead of the main line near Bahanagar Bazar station. This resulted in the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express overturning as it crashed into the scattered coaches of the Coromandel Express.

At least 288 people have been reported killed, with nearly 1,000 injured in the accident involving the two trains carrying around 2,000 passengers.

The Indian Railways has initiated a high-level probe led by the commissioner of railway safety to investigate the crash in Odisha’s Balasore. The incident will be thoroughly examined, and the cause determined.

The anti-train collision system called “Kavach” was not available on the route where the accident occurred. The system is designed to alert and take control of the brakes if a loco pilot jumps a signal or if another train is detected on the same track within a certain distance.

Speculation surrounding the cause of the crash suggests that the Coromandel Express either entered the loop line and hit the stationary goods train or derailed first and then collided with the parked train.

Safety drives and comprehensive reviews of working practices have been implemented by the Indian Railways to prevent accidents and ensure the enforcement of safe operation and maintenance procedures.

Efforts are ongoing to install the Kavach anti-train collision system across the Indian Railways network to enhance passenger safety and mitigate the risk of collisions caused by human error.

The investigation is ongoing, and further official statements and findings from the railways are awaited to provide a comprehensive understanding of the incident.