Two Loco Trains Crash Inside Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Tunnel; High-Level Probe Ordered

DEHRADUN: A serious safety concern has emerged from the depths of Uttarakhand’s Vishnugad-Pipalkoti hydroelectric project, where two loco trains, integral to the construction efforts, collided inside a tunnel recently. The incident, while not yet fully detailed, has prompted an immediate inquiry into the safety protocols at the critical infrastructure site.

Sources indicate the collision occurred when both narrow-gauge trains, used for ferrying materials and personnel, were operating within the confined space of a project tunnel. Fortunately, initial reports suggest there were no immediate major casualties among the project staff, although the exact extent of any injuries is still being assessed by project authorities. The locomotives involved reportedly sustained damage, hindering operations in the affected section.

The Vishnugad-Pipalkoti hydroelectric project, a significant undertaking on the Alaknanda River, relies heavily on these internal railway systems to navigate the challenging mountainous terrain and facilitate the immense construction work. The disruption caused by the collision has temporarily halted activities in the tunnel as rescue and assessment teams work to clear the site and understand the sequence of events leading to the mishap.

(AI generated image. Only for representational purpose.)

Project management has confirmed the initiation of a high-level investigation to ascertain the precise reasons behind the collision. The focus remains on strengthening safety measures to prevent any recurrence in this complex and high-risk environment. Further updates are anticipated as the inquiry progresses.