Fatal Accident on Suburban Train
On Monday, a tragic incident occurred in the Thane district near Mumbai, resulting in the deaths of at least five commuters and leaving several others injured. The victims fell onto the tracks from two local trains operating between Diva and Mumbra stations.
According to a spokesperson from Central Railway, initial reports indicated that over a dozen individuals fell from the moving trains. Eyewitness accounts confirmed that many passengers were knocked off. The injured were promptly transported to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hospital in Kalwa.
While local sources reported a minimum of five fatalities, the Central Railway stated that confirmation would only come from officials in Thane. The incident was reported around 9:30 AM, as confirmed by railway and police authorities.
A spokesperson explained that the victims were likely those traveling on the footboards of the trains. Passengers on a train from Kasara collided with those heading towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, leading to the unfortunate fall.
Typically, there is a gap of one-and-a-half to two meters between the tracks of suburban trains. The spokesperson noted that passengers traveling on footboards with backpacks may have brushed against each other, causing the mishap.
The initial report from the guard of the Kasara-bound train indicated that six passengers were found injured on the tracks. However, upon the arrival of ambulances, it was confirmed that eight individuals were affected.
The spokesperson clarified that this incident, which occurred on a curve where trains travel at speeds of approximately 100 km/h, is not classified as a train accident but rather an unfortunate event involving injuries.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his condolences, stating, "It is very unfortunate that a total of 8 passengers fell from a local train between Diva-Mumbra station, and some lost their lives. I pay my heartfelt tributes to them. We share the grief of their families. The injured have been immediately admitted to Shivaji Hospital and Thane General Hospital and are undergoing treatment. The local administration is coordinating. I pray to God that the injured get relief soon."
Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar emphasized the need for improved safety measures on overcrowded suburban railway lines, stating, "The deaths of railway passengers have highlighted the need to pay more serious attention to the issue of overcrowding and passenger safety on suburban railway lines. I am confident that the railway administration will take concrete actions at the earliest to make the suburban railway service more effective and safe. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured passengers in the accident."
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the guardian minister of Thane district, expressed his sorrow, stating, "It is a very unfortunate incident. We stand with the families." Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena (UBT) has called for the resignation of the Railway Minister.
