A major accident in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, left over 100 people injured after two locomotive trains collided inside the Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project tunnel on Tuesday night. The collision occurred around 9:30 pm during a routine shift change, when one train was carrying project workers and officials, and the other was transporting construction materials.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene inside the confined tunnel as the trains rammed into each other, throwing passengers off balance. Panic spread quickly, and many sustained injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to fractures. Initial reports suggested around 60 people were injured, though later updates indicated the total number could exceed 100.
Rescue operations were launched immediately by on-site staff, local administration, and emergency teams. Injured workers were evacuated carefully from the tunnel and transported to nearby hospitals, including facilities in Pipalkoti and Gopeshwar. Authorities confirmed that most of the injured are in stable condition, with a few receiving treatment for more serious injuries.
The Vishnugad-Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project, with a planned capacity of 444 megawatts, is under active construction on the Alaknanda River. The project uses internal locomotive trains to transport manpower and materials through its extensive tunnel network, which is a routine part of operations.
District authorities, in coordination with THDC officials, have initiated a detailed inquiry into the cause of the collision. The investigation will focus on operational coordination, signaling systems, and adherence to safety protocols inside the tunnel. THDC has assured that safety procedures will be strengthened to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This accident underscores the risks and safety challenges associated with large infrastructure and hydropower projects, especially in confined underground work zones. Authorities have called for stricter monitoring and improved communication between personnel operating inside tunnels to ensure worker safety.
Officials also urged construction teams across the state to review internal transport and operational protocols. Meanwhile, medical teams continue to monitor and treat the injured, and relief efforts remain ongoing as the incident draws attention to worker safety at major hydroelectric projects.
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