The tragedy that took place on Friday, October 18 in Amritsar, has shaken the nation. During a Dusshera celebration, people stood on train tracks to witness the festivities, when a train rammed through the crowed, killing many. It is very sad that those who came to celebrate the occasion, ended up getting hurt and killed.
Alas, close to 60 people were killed during this accident and many were left injured. There have hardly been any words to console the families of those affected, and as usual, Indian political parties have started blaming each other.
The function took place in a small area which could accommodate only 200 people. However, there were more than 2,000 people present that day.
The authorities have now started questioning the Indian Railway Ministry. The crossing was not newly constructed, nor are the local people new to the passing of trains in the area. People are very much aware of the dangerous repercussions of standing on railway tracks. Nevertheless, on that fateful day, many people crossed the barrier and risked their life. A train which is running at more than 100 km/h speed, cannot slow down so fast. It cannot suddenly come to a stop or wait for people to move away from the track. Had the driver suddenly stopped the train, the conditions of the passenger and the following bogies would have been more tragic.
Thus, attributing the blame on the driver or the ministry is not reasonable or justifiable. For this specific incident either the local authority or the people are to be blamed. Even, if the authorities gave permission for the function, the people have no business trespassing beyond the allocated area. The people present should have been more sensible and responsible.
Every day, many accidents and mishaps happen. People are aware of these accidents. As far as the incident is concerned, it was caused because of negligence and a violation of rules. Thus, people should stop blaming the government for their own mistakes. This is a tragedy but not one particular person can be held responsible.
At the same time, there are some forces trying to blame the railway authorities and ministers just to escape the blame. It is very unfortunate. Such efforts should be thwarted and justice should be given to those affected.
-The reader is a resident of Abu Dhabi
