Team Herald
MARGAO: With two tragic deaths on the railway tracks—one at Margao Railway Station and another at the Utorda railway crossing—concerns about safety around railway lines in South Goa have resurfaced.
However, railway officials maintain that the accidents are a direct result of public negligence and unauthorised track crossings, despite repeated warnings and awareness campaigns.
In the span of just a few days, both victims lost their lives in separate incidents under similar circumstances: attempting to cross the railway tracks at unauthorised points. The back-to-back fatalities have sparked public debate about the adequacy of safety measures, but authorities insist the responsibility lies with individuals who ignore basic safety norms.
Speaking to O Heraldo, Baban Ghatge, Senior Officer of Konkan Railway, strongly emphasised that such incidents are preventable. “These accidents are entirely due to negligence. Trespassing on the railway track is an offence, and despite knowing this, people continue to risk their lives by crossing at unauthorised points,” he said.
“There are authorised railway crossings provided for public use, and people must use them. We’ve put up signs, warnings, and barriers in many areas, yet people still attempt to take shortcuts,” he added.
The incident at Margao Railway Station involved a young man who reportedly tried to jump from a moving train and met with an accident. In the case at Utorda, a local woman is believed to have been attempting to reach the other side quickly, unaware of an oncoming train due to noise distractions and poor visibility.
Local residents, while shocked by the incidents, admit that track crossing has become a common and dangerous habit in many areas. “People are in a rush. They want to save a few minutes, but they’re risking their lives. And sadly, many only realise the danger when it's too late,” said Chris Cruz, a resident of Utorda.
Railway authorities say they are doing their part. In addition to warning signs, public awareness drives have been conducted in schools, community halls, and local markets. Some areas have even installed fencing to prevent access to the tracks, but gaps remain—literally and figuratively.
Safety activists believe there needs to be a combination of stricter enforcement and better infrastructure. “There are places where foot overbridges or underpasses could genuinely help reduce illegal crossings,” said one safety campaigner. “But enforcement and education are just as important. People need to understand that they’re putting themselves and others at risk.”
In the wake of these incidents, Konkan Railway is reportedly reviewing safety protocols and may look into enhanced surveillance and fencing in vulnerable zones.
As Baban Ghatge puts it, “The railway track is not a footpath. People must treat it with the seriousness it deserves. A moment’s carelessness can cost a life.”