The accident occurred around 4 p.m. when the Korba–Bilaspur MEMU train rammed into the freight train from behind near the Lal Khadan area. The impact crushed several coaches, with the women’s reserved compartment suffering the most damage. District Collector Sanjay Agarwal confirmed the death toll and said the injured, including children, were being treated at Bilaspur Railway Hospital.
Rescue teams from the Railway Protection Force, police, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are on site. Gas cutters are being used to open damaged carriages, and a special train has been deployed to clear the tracks and repair overhead wiring and signalling systems damaged in the collision.
Railway officials have announced compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹5 lakh for those injured. The Central Railway spokesperson said a Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS)-level inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the accident. Preliminary reports suggest a possible signalling fault or human error.
Train services on the busy Korba–Bilaspur route have been halted, delaying several long-distance trains, including the Azad Hind Express, Hirakud Express, and Amarkantak Express. Local trains between Bilaspur, Raipur, and Raigarh have also been cancelled.
Helpline numbers have been issued for passengers and families seeking information. Authorities said restoration work on the affected line will begin once rescue operations conclude, as efforts continue through the night to ensure all passengers are safely evacuated.
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