A major train accident occurred near Chennai on the evening of October 11, 2024, when the Mysuru-Darbhanga Bagmati Express (Train No. 12578) collided with a stationary goods train at Kavaraipettai in the Chennai Railway Division. The crash resulted in 19 injuries, with three passengers suffering serious injuries, requiring hospitalization. Six others with minor injuries were treated at the Government Hospital Ponneri. The collision has prompted an immediate emergency response and intensified rescue operations, with more than 500 personnel on the ground assisting in the rescue and recovery.

The accident occurred around 8:30 PM, with multiple coaches of the Bagmati Express being derailed. According to officials, six coaches were derailed, and three caught fire. The Southern Railway confirmed that eighteen trains were cancelled and several others were diverted as restoration work continued. Stranded passengers were safely transported by buses to Ponneri and later to Chennai Central via two EMU Specials. Once at Chennai Central, passengers received medical checks and were provided with food and water before being boarded onto a special train to Darbhanga at 4:45 AM.

The rescue operations have been praised for their swift execution. Southern Railway has deployed a significant number of resources, including 5 heavy earth movers, 3 JCBs, and two 140-ton cranes from Tondiarpet. In addition, heavy-duty re-railing equipment and an accident relief train were mobilized to assist with the re-railing of the derailed coaches.

One of the key questions surrounding the accident is whether the collision was caused by a signal malfunction or if it was a deliberate act of sabotage. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has already sent an official to the site of the accident to investigate the matter thoroughly. At the time of the crash, the passenger train was traveling at a speed of 80 km/h on a loop line, leading to speculation about whether the entry onto the loop line was an error or part of a more serious issue.

The Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Udhayanidhi Stalin, visited the injured passengers at Government Stanley Medical College Hospital, expressing his concern for their recovery. He also acknowledged the efforts of the rescue teams and the swift action taken by the government. Chief Minister MK Stalin has emphasized the government's commitment to providing immediate relief and rescue operations, with a dedicated team ensuring that food and travel arrangements are made for the passengers.

The Ministry of Railways has yet to release full details about the total number of injuries and damages caused by the accident. However, as part of standard procedures, ex-gratia payments have been issued to the families of those affected.

As the investigation continues, it is essential to highlight the significant coordination between the rescue teams, government officials, and the Southern Railway in responding to this crisis. The Tamil Nadu Fire Department has also been involved in removing the derailed coaches and ensuring the area is cleared for further recovery work.

The impact of this collision has caused significant disruption to train services in the region. Several long-distance trains have been diverted, and passengers have faced delays and cancellations. The Southern Railway is working tirelessly to restore normalcy to the affected routes as quickly as possible.

The NIA's involvement adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation. While the agency is investigating potential sabotage, other sources suggest that the collision may have been a result of an unexpected signal failure. Authorities are also exploring the possibility that the goods train was incorrectly placed on the loop line, leading to the rear collision.

This tragic accident underscores the importance of railway safety and the need for continuous monitoring and improvement of railway infrastructure. The Southern Railway and other relevant authorities will likely face increased scrutiny in the coming weeks as investigations proceed.

Rescue operations are expected to continue for several days, as the damaged coaches are removed and tracks are repaired. Southern Railway has assured the public that safety protocols are being followed meticulously to prevent any further incidents.

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