FreightTrain – Probe Ordered After High-Speed Descent on Khandala Ghat
FreightTrain – A freight train’s rapid descent on the Mumbai-Pune corridor has triggered an official safety investigation by Central Railway authorities.
A goods train hauling nearly 50 wagons sped down the steep Khandala Ghat section between Palasdari and Karjat stations on Thursday afternoon, raising serious safety concerns. The incident occurred around 1:40 pm on February 26 along the busy Mumbai-Pune rail route, one of the most critical railway corridors in Maharashtra.
Overspeeding on a Sensitive Stretch
According to senior officials from the Central Railway zone, the freight train was clocked at approximately 75 kmph while navigating the ghat section. The permissible speed limit for trains descending this stretch is 60 kmph due to its sharp gradients and curves. Authorities have described the incident as a significant breach of operational safety norms.
The train, which was travelling from Lonavala toward Karjat, was powered by five locomotives to manage the steep incline. The Khandala Ghat section is considered among the most challenging gradients in the country, requiring precise speed control and coordinated braking.
Multiple Crews Onboard
Railway sources confirmed that two specialised ghat driver crews, along with one regular crew, were present on the locomotive at the time. Despite this, the train reportedly gathered speed beyond the approved limit while descending the slope.
A spokesperson for Central Railway stated that a formal inquiry has been initiated to determine how the train exceeded the speed restriction. Preliminary findings suggest that the crew experienced difficulty controlling the train during the descent. However, the train was eventually brought to a halt safely between Karjat and Bhivpuri stations, preventing any damage or injuries.
Role of Trainee Loco Pilot Under Scrutiny
Sources familiar with the initial assessment indicated that a trainee loco pilot was operating the train under supervision. Investigators are expected to examine whether operational oversight, human error, or procedural lapses contributed to the overspeeding.
After the train was stopped, it was moved to Chowk station for a detailed mechanical inspection. Railway engineers conducted checks on the braking system to rule out technical malfunction. Early reports indicate that the brakes were functioning normally, strengthening the possibility that the incident stemmed from crew handling rather than equipment failure.
Videos Surface Online
Short video clips showing the freight train descending the ghat at high speed surfaced on social media shortly after the incident. The footage prompted widespread discussion about railway safety standards and monitoring mechanisms on challenging routes.
Railway officials have urged the public not to speculate until the inquiry is completed. They emphasized that such incidents are examined thoroughly under established safety protocols.
Safety Measures on Ghat Sections
The Khandala Ghat stretch, situated between Lonavala and Karjat, requires additional locomotives and specially trained drivers due to its steep gradient. Freight trains navigating this section typically operate under strict supervision, with speed restrictions enforced to prevent runaway situations.
Railway authorities conduct periodic training and safety drills for ghat operations, including brake testing procedures and communication coordination among crew members. The ongoing investigation will review adherence to these protocols on the day of the incident.
Officials have reiterated that passenger and freight operations on the Mumbai-Pune route remain unaffected. They also assured that any lapses identified in the inquiry will be addressed through corrective measures, including possible disciplinary action if warranted.
The final report is expected to provide clarity on the chain of events and recommend steps to strengthen operational safety on steep railway sections.