The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the investigation into the tragic train crash that occurred in Odisha’s Balasore on Friday, resulting in the death of 278 individuals. The CBI probe team arrived at the accident site this morning and has filed a case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. This move by the CBI is significant, as officials believe that only a thorough investigation by a top agency can determine if there was any criminal tampering with the point machine or the electronic interlocking system, or if the train changed tracks due to reconfiguration or a signaling error.
Initially, the Odisha police had filed a case with charges of “causing death by negligence and endangering life” in connection with the train accident. However, railway officials had hinted at the possibility of “sabotage” and tampering with the interlocking system, which is responsible for detecting the presence of trains. The accident involved the Shalimar-Chennai Central Coromandel Express, the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express, and a goods train. It resulted in the loss of 278 lives and left over 800 people injured.
The railways’ preliminary investigation suggested that a signaling problem was the cause of the accident, ruling out a direct collision. Nevertheless, some railway experts have raised doubts about whether the Coromandel Express may have directly hit the goods train while on a “loop line.” A “loop line” is a track that branches off from the main railway tracks and then reconnects after a certain distance, aiding in the management of busy rail traffic. Visual evidence indicates that the Coromandel Express’s engine came to rest on top of the goods train, suggesting a head-on collision.
The CBI inquiry will aim to address all queries surrounding the accident, which is the deadliest in the country over the past two decades. Government sources have emphasized that all possible angles will be thoroughly investigated, including mechanical error, human error, and sabotage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured that strict action will be taken against those found guilty.
As the investigation progresses under the CBI’s purview, it is hoped that a comprehensive examination of the circumstances leading to the tragic train crash will be conducted. The nation seeks answers regarding the factors contributing to the accident, and justice for the lives lost and the families affected by this devastating incident.
