Railways accountable for Bhopal foot over bridge tragedy:Victim dies, commission cites poor construction; 5-year legal battle ends with compensation order

The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has firmly rejected the defence put forward by Indian Railways in the Bhopal railway station foot over bridge (FOB) collapse case. Railways had argued that a passenger’s journey ends upon alighting from the train, and station facilities are free of cost, so no liability arises. However, the commission clarified that foot over bridges are essential facilities for passengers, and the slab collapse directly reflects negligence and deficiency in service. The commission noted that the bridge was neither constructed properly nor maintained periodically, leading to the major accident. The victim, Khalid Beg, who was critically injured, later died on November 19, 2023. The verdict was delivered by Commission Chairman Yogesh Datt Shukla. Railway’s Defence: FOB not our responsibility Railways submitted that the FIR, PNR, and medical documents were part of the case record and did not need a separate response. Citing Section 2(14) of the Indian Railways Act, the defence argued that fares are collected solely for train travel. Once the passenger reaches the destination, station facilities are free, and thus the complaint should not proceed. Railways also submitted an affidavit by R.K. Parashar, Divisional Commercial Manager of West Central Railway, Bhopal. The incident occurred on February 13, 2020. Commission rejects Railway’s argument The commission dismissed all of the Railways’ claims, stating that the complainant was travelling by train and using the foot overbridge constructed bythe Railways when the slab suddenly fell. It clarified that the foot over bridge is essential for passengers to move between platforms and exit the station safely. Ensuring proper construction and timely maintenance is the railway’s responsibility. The commission said in strong terms: “The slab collapse clearly proves that the bridge was not built with proper materials nor maintained adequately. Railways cannot absolve itself of negligence and liability. This is a case of deficiency in service.” The Incident On February 13, 2020, the Sampark Kranti Express arrived at Bhopal Station. While passengers were crossing the foot over bridge, a concrete slab measuring roughly 10×10 sq ft collapsed. 10–15 passengers were trapped under the debris. With help from fellow passengers and police, the injured were rescued. Khalid Beg, who had traveled from Kachiguda (Hyderabad), was exiting Platform 2 with family members when the accident occurred. The collapse happened at around 9:03 AM. Eyewitnesses reported that the bridge was crowded. RPF, GRP, and NDRF teams immediately started rescue operations. 7 injured from one family A family of 34 returning from a wedding in Hyderabad was affected. Seven members, including Khalid Beg, were seriously injured. The victims were residents of Old City and Manglabara Cantonment. Khalid suffered severe spinal injuries. Long treatment and death of Khalid Beg The commission acknowledged that Khalid sustained multiple injuries, including severe spinal fractures, and underwent long-term treatment in several private and government hospitals, including Chirayu Hospital, Bhopal. Before the accident, Khalid worked as a labourer earning Rs 30,000- 40,000 per month to support his family, but the accident left him permanently debilitated. Khalid Beg has since passed away. 5-Year legal battle Advocate Arun Singh Rana said Khalid Beg and five relatives were seriously injured when the bridge slab collapsed due to railway negligence. Initially, Railways provided some treatment, but later withdrew support. With no resolution, the family approached the court. After nearly five years, the court held the Railways responsible and ordered Rs 6.25 lakh plus interest as compensation. Compensation ordered The consumer commission directed Railways to pay Rs 6,35,000 as compensation and Rs 3,000 for legal expenses. Interest at 9% per annum will apply if payment is delayed. The commission noted that future loss of earnings could not be assessed due to the lack of a permanent disability certificate. Victims of the accident Those injured include: Nahida Jahan (40), Ajhar Khan, their son Ayaan (15), Aman (19) of Jail Road; Salimurrahman (40), Khalilurrahman (38), Khalid Beg (38) of Manglabara Cantonment; Mariyam (20), wife of Ejaz of Ahir Mohalla, Vidisha; Anupam Sharma (31), Vidisha; and one minor with minor injuries.