Four Killed After Being Hit by Train While Crossing Tracks in UP’s Mirzapur: Officials Cite Negligence, CM Orders Probe
In a tragic incident that has once again highlighted the dangers of crossing railway tracks, four people were killed on Wednesday after being hit by a speeding train in Uttar Pradesh’s Mirzapur district. The accident occurred at the Chunar Junction when the victims, who had just alighted from another train, attempted to cross the tracks from the wrong side.
According to railway officials, the victims had disembarked from the Chopan–Prayagraj Express on the side opposite the designated platform. Instead of using the foot overbridge, they tried to cross the tracks directly — a risky move that proved fatal. As they stepped onto the tracks, they were struck by the Howrah–Kalka Netaji Express, which was passing through the station at high speed from the opposite direction.
Eyewitnesses said that the victims appeared unaware of the approaching train, and by the time the horn sounded, it was too late for them to move away. “The passengers got down from the wrong side, possibly to save time. Unfortunately, the Howrah–Kalka Express came rushing in, and they couldn’t escape,” said a local resident who witnessed the accident.
Railway officials confirmed that all four victims died on the spot due to severe injuries. The bodies have been sent for postmortem, and efforts are underway to identify the deceased. Preliminary investigations suggest that the accident was caused by negligence on the part of the victims rather than any operational failure.
Station authorities stated that warnings against crossing tracks are regularly announced at Chunar Junction, but passengers often ignore safety advisories in haste. “Despite repeated announcements and signage, some commuters still choose to cross the tracks instead of using the bridge. It’s a recurring problem that leads to such unfortunate incidents,” said a senior railway official.
Following the tragedy, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and extended his condolences to the families of the victims. He directed the local administration and railway authorities to reach the site immediately, oversee the relief operations, and ensure that all necessary assistance is provided to the affected families.
The Chief Minister also called for a detailed report on the incident and instructed officials to strengthen safety measures at railway stations, especially in areas where passengers frequently cross tracks illegally.
Railway officials are now planning to increase awareness campaigns and possibly install additional barriers or signage to prevent people from crossing railway lines. The accident has once again raised concerns over passenger safety and public awareness at smaller junctions across the country, where such incidents remain
alarmingly frequent despite regular advisories.
As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a grim reminder of how a single moment of carelessness can lead to devastating consequences on India’s busy railway network.
