Rail Worker Tragedy: Freight Train Accident Highlights Safety Concerns

A track maintainer, Budhrai Besra, died in Kharagpur after being hit by a freight train. Allegations of railway negligence have emerged, with unions calling for compensation and better safety measures, including the widespread use of the GPS-based Rakshak device. An inquiry into the incident is underway.

A tragic incident in Kharagpur rail division claimed the life of 51-year-old track maintainer Budhrai Besra, who was struck by a freight train during a routine patrol. The accident has triggered allegations of negligence by the railways, brought forth by workers' unions.

Besra was conducting inspections for potential fractures or obstructions when he was hit. Officials suggest his ability to hear the approaching train might have been compromised by noise from other trains on nearby tracks.

The All India Railway Trackmaintainers Union has directly addressed the incident, criticizing the railways for failing to adhere to safety protocols. Union leaders are calling for compensation for Besra's family and advocating for implementing the GPS-based Rakshak device system-wide to alert workers of oncoming trains.