CM's car narrowly escapes hitting train

Raipur, Dec 12 (UNI) Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh had a narrow escape as an alert gateman closed the crossing gate preventing the VIP car from ramming into a goods train in Korba area.

South East Central Railway has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident and suspended four officials.

Police sources said Dr Singh, who reached Korba by helicopter yesterday, was proceeding by car to attend a programme, when a goods train approached the crossing while the VIP car was about to cross it. The pilot vehicle had passed through the open gate.

The alert gateman immediately closed the gate averting the VIP car's collision with the train.

The district administration had taken serious note of the lapse and complained to the railway authorities at Bilaspur.

Goods train driver, Assistant driver, cabin station master and gateman were immediately suspended. The DRM has directed early completion of the inquiry for further action.

UNI AS-SP MIR ND1424