- By Nidhi Giri
- Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:55 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The accident at Chunar Railway Station in Uttar Pradesh’s Mirzapur on Wednesday, has once again brought India’s railway safety concerns into focus. With one of the world’s largest railway networks, millions in India rely on trains everyday.
According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), India recorded 24,678 railway accidents cases in 2023, which claimed the lives of 21,803 people. This was a 6.7 per cent increase over the previous year. As per the official data, around 72.8 per cent of these fatalities were due to "fall from trains or collision of trains with people on tracks". Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh were at the top of the list with Maharashtra alone accounting for over 3,400 deaths and Uttar Pradesh over 3,100 in the year.
Chunar Railway Station Accident
On Wednesday morning, six pilgrims were killed after they were struck by the Howrah-Kalka Mail train while crossing the railway line at Chunar Railway Station in Uttar Pradesh's Mirzapur. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the accident and expressed condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased. CM Yogi further directed SDRF and NDRF teams to reach the spot and expedite relief work.
Why Train-Related Accidents Happen In India
Train accidents in India often occur due to a combination of human error and infrastructural shortcomings. Unsafe pedestrian behaviour, with people frequently crossing tracks at undesignated points, underestimating the speed or distance of an approaching train are some of the reasons. Inadequate fencing and barriers along railway lines make it easier for individuals and even livestock to stray onto the tracks, increasing the risk of collisions. Apart from this, limited public understanding of railway signals and warning systems are some more reasons.
Safety Points To Remember When Around Railway Tracks
-One should always expect a train when near tracks as freight trains don't travel at fixed times and schedule for passenger trains often change.
-One should never stroll or walk on railway tracks. It takes a considerable amount of time for freight trains to stop. Trains cannot stop quickly.
-One should always assume that railroad tracks are in use, even when the tracks look unused.
-Trains are extremely quick and it might be difficult for people to judge the speed of the train. Stay alert around railroad tracks.
-People should cross railway tracks at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings.
-Always read the warning signs and symbols around the tracks.
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-Stay away from distractions that prevent you from hearing an approaching train. Avoid texting and using headphones near tracks.