Archive · 12 Nov 2025
Bilaspur Train Accident: Loco Pilot Failed Aptitude Test, Probe Reveals
A train crashed in India, and sadly, many people were hurt and some even died.
The train was supposed to stop at a red light, but it didn't.
Investigators found out that the driver of the train hadn't passed an important test to make sure he was fit to drive trains, even though he was driving a passenger train.
This test checks if drivers are paying attention and can make good decisions.
Many other train drivers who also drive these types of trains in the area also haven't passed this important test.
Because of the crash, railway officials are now making sure all drivers take this test before they can drive trains again.
They are also looking at improving training to help prevent similar accidents from happening in the future.
The Gevra-Bilaspur MEMU passenger train collided with a stationary freight train near Bilaspur on November 4, killing 11 and injuring 20.
The MEMU train overshot a red signal before colliding with the freight train at approximately 50 kmph.
A preliminary investigation revealed that the deceased loco pilot, Vidyasagar, had not cleared the mandatory psychological aptitude test for passenger train operations.
In Bilaspur and Nagpur divisions, a significant number of MEMU loco pilots are reportedly operating trains without passing these crucial psychological fitness assessments.
Railway authorities have ordered urgent aptitude tests for all MEMU loco pilots and are implementing an action plan to prevent future accidents, including real-time monitoring and strengthened training.
- Who
- MEMU loco pilot Vidyasagar (deceased) and assistant loco pilot Rashmi Raj (injured), investigation team led by Commissioner of Railway Safety Brijesh Kumar Mishra
- What
- A MEMU passenger train collided with a stationary freight train after overshooting a red signal.
- When
- November 4
- Where
- Near Lal Khadan, close to Bilaspur's Gatora station, India
- Why
- Preliminary findings point to human error, inexperience, and the deceased loco pilot's failure to clear a mandatory psychological aptitude test, potentially leading to misjudgment of signals.
- Date of Accident
- November 4
- Location
- Near Lal Khadan, close to Bilaspur's Gatora station, India
- Trains Involved
- Gevra-Bilaspur MEMU passenger train and a stationary freight train
- Fatalities
- 11
- Injuries
- 20
- Accident Cause (Preliminary)
- MEMU overshot red signal, human error, inexperience, potential signal misinterpretation
- Key Finding
- Deceased loco pilot had not cleared mandatory psychological (aptitude suitability) test