Chhattisgarh Train Crash: Pilot Unfit, Lacked Safety Knowledge - Investigation Report
December 10, 2025
The investigation into the deadly train collision in Chhattisgarh on November 4 found the loco pilot unfit to operate the commuter train. The Mainline Electrical Multiple Unit (MEMU) train passed a red signal and hit a stationary goods train, killing 12 people including the pilot, and injuring 19.
Commissioner of Railway Safety Brijesh Kumar Mishra said the pilot lacked key qualities and knowledge about safety rules. The report revealed he failed an aptitude test in June and scored only 2 out of 7 on safety knowledge last year.
During the train journey, the pilot called the Chief Loco Inspector twice for minor issues, showing his lack of confidence. Mishra said, "The problems for which the Loco pilot contacted the Chief Loco Inspector are of a routine nature and should have been resolved by the Loco Pilot himself."
The pilot also broke safety rules by not slowing down at a yellow signal and failing to stop at the next red signal. The assistant loco pilot, who could apply emergency brakes, did not act either, leading to the crash.
The report noted poor knowledge of the train manager, whose competency certificate seemed to be given without proper examination.
No blood alcohol test was done for the dead pilot as his body was disposed of without such requests. The assistant pilot's alcohol level was below 3 mg/dl, considered negative according to medical experts.
The investigation highlights serious safety and training issues behind the tragic collision.
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Tags:
Train Accident
Chhattisgarh
Loco Pilot
Safety Rules
Railway Inquiry
Collision
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