Patna, July 18 (IANS) A major rail accident was narrowly averted on Saturday on the Kiul-Jamalpur railway section in Bihar’s Lakhisarai district when the Up Bhagalpur-Muzaffarpur Janseva Express collided with a tractor‑trolley loaded with wood that had become stuck on a railway crossing near Rampur Halt.
The presence of mind and swift action of the loco pilot, who immediately applied the emergency brakes after spotting the obstruction, ensured that no passengers were injured.
According to eyewitnesses, the tractor‑trolley became stranded on the railway tracks while attempting to cross the level crossing.
As the Janseva Express approached, the loco pilot noticed the obstruction from a distance and activated the emergency braking system.
Although the train was unable to stop completely before impact, its speed had been significantly reduced, resulting in a low‑impact collision and preventing what could have been a major tragedy.
The collision caused damage to the locomotive, including the windscreen, headlight, and other front‑end components.
However, none of the passengers or railway staff onboard the train sustained any injuries.
Following the incident, the tractor driver reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene.
Railway operations on the section were temporarily disrupted as officials worked to remove the damaged tractor‑trolley from the tracks.
It took nearly 45 minutes to clear the obstruction, during which the Janseva Express remained halted near the Rampur railway crossing.
Train services resumed only after railway personnel declared the track safe for movement.
Preliminary inquiries have also pointed to possible negligence by the railway gateman posted at the crossing.
According to initial findings, despite the tractor‑trolley becoming stranded on the tracks, the gateman allegedly failed to immediately alert the nearest station master or railway control.
Railway officials believe that timely communication could have enabled authorities to stop the approaching train well in advance, thereby preventing the collision and the resulting damage to the locomotive.
The matter is under investigation, and departmental action may follow if negligence is established.
–IANS
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