Kolkata, May 28, 2024 – An unexpected derailment of an empty EMU train disrupted the morning operations at Howrah Division today. The incident occurred at approximately 07:05 hours when the train, traveling from Sheoraphuli (SHE) to Howrah (HWH), derailed at Liluah (LLH) station. The derailment took place while the train was diverting from the down main line to the reversible line.
Impact on Rail Traffic
The derailment incident significantly impacted rail traffic. It caused a blockage on the down main line and also infringed on the up main line, leading to delays and disruptions for several commuter and long-distance trains. Passengers faced significant delays and inconvenience as trains were held up or rerouted to manage the situation.
Immediate Response and Relief Efforts
At 07:10 hours, the Accident Relief Train (ART) from Howrah was dispatched to the site. Railway officials, along with the relief train, promptly arrived to address the situation. The primary focus was to clear the derailed train and restore the normal flow of trains as quickly as possible.
Official Statement and Safety Measures
Shri Kausik Mitra, Chief Public Relations Officer of Eastern Railway, provided an official statement regarding the incident. “Efforts are underway to restore normalcy at the earliest,” he said. “A detailed investigation will be conducted to determine the cause of the derailment. The safety of passengers and railway personnel is our utmost priority, and all necessary measures are being taken to address the situation.”
Investigation and Future Steps
A thorough investigation will follow to identify the precise cause of the derailment. Eastern Railway will examine track conditions, signaling systems, and any potential human error. The findings will help in implementing corrective measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Conclusion
While the derailment at Liluah station caused significant disruptions, swift action by railway authorities aimed to mitigate the impact and restore services. Passenger safety remains the top priority, and comprehensive investigations will ensure future rail travel safety and reliability.
