Local train crashes into dead-end in Churchgate

Five persons were injured on Sunday when a local train crashed into the buffer of the dead-end at Churchgate suburban station and nearly climbed onto the concourse as the motorman failed to apply brakes in time.

The motorman also sustained injuries, according to eyewitnesses, who also said he was completely shaken afterwards. The incident took place when Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu was in Mumbai, holding discussions with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on improving the railway infrastructure of Mumbai and the state.

It occurred at 11:20 am, when the train was arriving from the Bhayender station on the far western suburbs in Thane district, said Western Railway (WR) officials. The 12-coach train hit the buffer of platform no 3.

WR General Manager S K Sood has ordered an inquiry into the incident.   On the basis of preliminary inquiries, the motorman, guard and the loco inspector have been placed under suspension.  Sood, along with Divisional Railway Manager of Mumbai Central Division Shailendra Kumar, visited the Churchgate station for investigations and overseeing the restoration work.

“Three people were given first aid by the staff at Churchgate station while two were referred to GT Hospital. Later on, they too were discharged,” WR spokesperson Sharat Chandrayan told reporters.

“The train moved normally till Marine Line. We checked, and it never overshot the platform or stopped in advance. As far as the brakes are concerned, there is a 1 per cent chance of brake fail. We will speak to the motorman. All counts would be discussed,” said Sood.