Kanpur train accident: What actually led to Indore-Patna Express mishap; how this worst rail tragedy in recent years happened

Kanpur: The train tragedy near Kanpur has claimed at least 133 lives so far. Also, over 200 were injured in the worst train accident in recent years.

What actually led to this train accident?

The train tragedy could have been caused due to rail fracture, according to sources in the railways.

While the exact cause of the Kanpur accident will be ascertained after the inquiry report, prima facie it indicates towards rail fracture, the sources said.

Fourteen coaches of Indore-Patna Express were derailed near Pukhrayan in Kanpur.

The worst train accident in recent years took place just a little around 3 AM on Sunday. 

What causes fracture on rail tracks?

Poor track maintenance including lack of proper fittings and ballast on the railway lines causes fracture on the tracks.

While a simple crack on track may not be of much concern, a severe fracture causing separation of the track could lead to derailment of trains. .

How Indore-Patna Express rail mishap happened?

Reportedly, coaches S1 and S2 had smashed into each other. 

Most of the casualties were feared to have been in these two compartments. 

S3 and S4 coaches also suffered severe damage while an AC III tier coach was also affected.

Casualties increased due to absence of modern coaches?

Casualties also increased due to absence of modern Linke Holfmann Bush (LHB) coaches in the train, the sources claim.

Had there been stainless steel LHB coaches, then the damage could have been less as these coaches have more in-built safety features which can absorb shock and impact of derailment more effectively and as a result do not topple, they said.

The accident comes at a time when railways are undertaking a massive brainstorming exercise to generate new innovative ideas to improve rail functioning and making the train journey a pleasant experience.