DNA RAIN CHECK: Light spells help Central Railway to control derailment

Moderate rainfall came as a boon to the Central Railway authorities, making it possible to restore train services in mere five hours after three coaches of the Mumbai-Howrah Mail were derailed near the Igatpuri station at 2.05 am on Sunday.

According to officials, three coaches — S12, S13, and the pantry car— were derailed while the train was entering the Igatpuri station. The down main line and the middle line — going towards Nashik — was blocked due to the derailment. However, the up line which heads towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj terminus (CSMT) was unaffected and remained safe for train movement.

"The derailment happened on a crossing while the train was entering the platform. Here, the speed of trains is 10kmph or less," said a Central Railway official.

Although there was no confirmation, the prima facie reason for the derailment seemed to be some problem with the railway tracks.

Further, sources have revealed that since the accident relief train was also at Igatpuri, it further quickened the process of rerailing.

"On getting the news about the derailment of 3 coaches, our officers and staff rushed to the spot immediately for restoration work that was done on a war footing," said Sunil Udasi, Chief PRO, Central Railway.

The CR authorities canceled few trains and had planned diversions via Pune, Manmad, Vasai, and Surat, which was called off after the rerailment was done.