A passenger train crashed into a stationary freight locomotive, killing at least 11 people and injuring 14 others in India.

The goods train had been halted when a MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) service slammed into it from behind near Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, on Tuesday, around 4 pm local time.

Footage shows the aftermath of the collision, with one coach seen resting atop another as shocked travellers evacuate the wreckage.

Reports said the MEMU service was travelling from Gevra in the Korba district towards Bilaspur on the Howrah–Mumbai line when the crash occurred.

A senior railway official said the commuter train was travelling at around 60 to 70kmh when it struck the freight engine after passing a red signal.

The official added: 'It is under investigation why the loco pilot crossed the red signal and failed to apply the emergency brake in time, even though the goods train was visible.'

Local media reported that the driver, Vidya Sagar, died in the collision, while assistant loco pilot Rashmi Raj, a woman, sustained serious injuries.

Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao said: 'A very tragic incident has occurred. The goods train was stationary, and a MEMU train collided with it from behind.

'The engine is in the front coach, and some passengers also sit there. That coach has been damaged. Senior railway officials and state government officers have reached the spot.

'Relief and rescue operations have begun. The injured are being taken to the hospital.'

An investigation is underway.

India's frequent train accidents are largely attributed to ageing infrastructure, including outdated tracks and signalling systems.

The railway network's overcrowding, which often operates beyond its designed capacity, puts additional strain on equipment and safety measures.

Human error, such as misreading signals or fatigue-related mistakes, also plays a significant role in many of these accidents.