Karnaphuli Express engine and four coaches derail in Cumilla: Dhaka-bound line shut, probe committee formed

The engine and four coaches of the Karnaphuli commuter train have derailed near Naoti station in Nangalkot, Cumilla. The accident occurred at around 12:30pm on Wednesday (21 October). Train movement on the Dhaka-bound rail line has remained suspended since the accident.

A four-member investigation committee has been formed over the incident. Railway divisional transport officer Md Mostafizur Rahman confirmed the formation of the committee. The four-member committee has been formed with Chattogram divisional transport officer Farhan Mahmud as its convener.

Passengers of the train said it left Nangalkot station after 12:20pm. After passing Naoti station, the train's engine and four coaches derailed.

According to the passengers, the train seemed to be running faster that day compared with other days. However, the actual cause of the accident cannot be confirmed until the investigation is complete.

At the moment of derailment, panic and a scramble broke out among the passengers. Several passengers were injured on the head and other parts of the body. Some suffered split heads, and a few were injured in the rush itself.

The injured persons are reported to have returned home after receiving first aid. Fortunately, no major loss of life has been reported in the accident.

After the accident, at least three hundred passengers of the train left for their respective destinations by various other vehicles. Passengers stranded on the line had to travel by alternative transport.

According to Laksam railway station sources, five coaches that were on the rail line have been taken to Nangalkot station. A rescue train is coming from Chattogram to recover the four derailed coaches and the engine.

Once the rescue work is finished, the derailed coaches and engine will also be taken to the station, sources concerned said. Train movement on the Dhaka-bound line will not return to normal until the rescue and line repair work is complete.

A clear idea about the cause of the accident will be available once the investigation committee submits its report. For now, the railway's main task is to finish the rescue work and restore rail communication quickly.