Sun Nov 10 00:26:39 UTC 2024: ## Pointsman Dies in Tragic Accident at Barauni Junction
**Barauni Junction, Bihar:** A fatal accident occurred at Barauni Junction on Saturday, claiming the life of a 25-year-old pointsman, Amar Kumar. The incident, which was captured on CCTV footage, was the result of a miscommunication and lack of coordination between Kumar and another pointsman, Mohd Suleman.
According to a preliminary inquiry report, Kumar and Suleman were assigned the task of detaching the engine from the Lucknow-Barauni Express train. While disconnecting the engine and a power car, Kumar was tragically caught between the buffers of the two units.
The report found that Suleman had given the wrong signal to the loco driver, causing the engine to move backward unexpectedly. The driver, unaware of Kumar’s presence, reversed the engine, trapping him between the buffers. Kumar died at the scene.
Suleman, in his written submission, has defended himself and claimed the loco driver was responsible for the accident. He stated that he and Kumar disconnected the engine and power car and that Kumar was closing the buffer coupler when the driver reversed the engine without any signal.
The incident has sparked a major investigation, with a senior-level inquiry also being ordered. CCTV footage from the station has been analyzed to establish the sequence of events leading to the accident.
This tragic incident highlights the importance of clear communication and coordination between railway staff during shunting operations.
First Piper 