Date: July 7, 2023
In a significant development regarding the tragic Odisha triple train crash, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested three railways officials allegedly responsible for the incident. The arrest comes after a month-long investigation, during which the CBI gathered crucial evidence pointing to the accused individuals' involvement. The arrested officials have been identified as Arun Kumar Mahanta, senior section engineer; Mohammad Amir Khan, section engineer; and technician Pappu Kumar.
The Odisha triple train crash, which claimed the lives of over 290 passengers, sent shockwaves across the country. The CBI has arrested the railway employees under sections 304 and 201 of the Indian Penal Code, which pertain to culpable homicide and destruction of evidence, respectively. While the agency has not disclosed the exact nature of their actions leading to the incident, these stringent charges indicate a significant level of negligence or wrongdoing on their part.
The recent arrests came shortly after the Commissioner of Railways Safety (CRS) submitted its report on the Balasore accident to the railway board. According to the CRS investigation, faulty signaling resulting from two botched repair works was identified as the primary cause of the tragic collision. The first repair work occurred in 2018, while the second took place just hours before the accident. The report highlighted that the rear-collision of the Coromandel Express with a goods train on another track was a direct consequence of these signaling lapses.
The CRS report pointed out that the signaling-circuit-alteration carried out in the past, as well as during the execution of the signaling work related to the replacement of an electric lifting barrier for level crossing gate number 94 at the station, contributed to the catastrophic incident. The report's findings strongly suggest that inadequate repairs and maintenance of the signaling system played a crucial role in the collision.
It is worth noting that the Railways has not made the CRS probe report public to avoid any potential influence or interference on the ongoing CBI investigation. By keeping the report confidential, officials aim to ensure an impartial and unbiased assessment of the case. This decision underscores the commitment to a thorough and transparent investigation to uncover the truth behind the Odisha triple train crash.
The arrest of the three railways officials marks a significant step forward in holding individuals accountable for their alleged roles in the tragic incident. The CBI's decision to invoke sections 304 and 201 of the Indian Penal Code underscores the seriousness of the charges and the agency's commitment to seeking justice for the victims and their families.
As the investigation continues, it is hoped that the CBI will uncover the full extent of the negligence or wrongdoing that led to the collision. Such incidents serve as a reminder of the critical importance of ensuring the safety and security of railway systems, emphasizing the need for robust maintenance practices, regular inspections, and timely repairs.