Howrah–Bhubaneswar Jan Shatabdi and Howrah–Puri Shatabdi Express’ major mishap averted; probe on

A major train accident was narrowly avoided at Soro railway station in Balasore district on Sunday evening when the Howrah–Bhubaneswar Jan Shatabdi Express was stopped in time after some ‘signal conflict’.

However, the alertness of the train driver helped prevent a possible mishap with another Shatabdi Express operating on the Howrah–Puri route.

Incident At Soro Station

According to reports, the Howrah–Bhubaneswar Jan Shatabdi Express arrived at Soro station at 5.36 pm and was scheduled to depart at 5.46 pm. At the same time, the Howrah–Puri Shatabdi Express was approaching the station area, although at a reduced speed, even though its designated line was not clear. 

Despite the caution, the train advanced beyond the station perimeter, leading to an alleged signal conflict, and the trains almost came face-to-face.

The signal given to the Jan Shatabdi Express turned red as a result. To avert danger, the Howrah–Bhubaneswar Jan Shatabdi was held back at Soro, while the Howrah–Puri Shatabdi was controlled at Markona station.

If the situation had not been detected in time, then an unfortunate collision may have happened, according to reports. Sources also added that commuters at the railway station panicked at the scene, whereas those inside the two trains were largely unaware of what had happened.

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Investigation Underway

Following the incident, the locomotive pilot, assistant pilot, and guard of the Shatabdi Express have been removed from duty pending further inquiry. Senior railway officials rushed to Markona station to review the situation and initiate an investigation into lapses in operational protocol.

The railway authorities confirmed that no passengers were harmed and that train operations were restored after the situation was brought under control. The inquiry is expected to determine whether procedural violations or human error led to such a confusion.

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Strict action will be taken based on the findings of the probe, sources said.