Rayagada, Jul 17: A tragic incident unfolded at Rayagada Railway Station in Odisha on Wednesday, when a passenger train collided with a railway maintenance trolley, resulting in the death of one labourer and leaving two others critically injured.
The mishap occurred on Platform No. 4, where Train No. 58528 Visakhapatnam–Raipur passenger train struck a light motor trolley being used by the Railway engineering department for routine track maintenance. The trolley was reportedly being handled by a group of contractual labourers.
According to eyewitnesses, the labourers were trying to remove the trolley from the tracks as the train approached the platform. However, in the rush, part of the trolley became stuck, leading to a devastating impact. One of the labourers died on the spot, while two others sustained serious injuries.
The injured have been identified as Babula Shaha and Sushant Das. They were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. The identity of the deceased has not yet been officially confirmed.
The incident has sparked concern over safety protocols and coordination during railway maintenance activities, especially when conducted in active zones. Local authorities and railway officials have launched an inquiry into the matter to determine lapses, if any, and to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Railway officials have assured that appropriate action will be taken following the investigation, and measures will be strengthened to ensure the safety of maintenance staff.
