CHENNAI: The loco pilot of the Bagmati Express involved in the Kavarapettai accident and a railway employee who played a key role in assisting passengers post-accident were among others honoured with the Athi Vishist Rail Seva Puraskar 2025 at the 71st Railway Week celebrations in New Delhi on Friday. In total, 11 employees from the Southern Railway received awards at the ceremony.
G Subramani, loco pilot of Train No 12578 Bagmati Express, was recognised for his presence of mind during the accident on October 11, 2024. He sensed abnormal movement near Kavarapettai station and immediately applied the emergency brake. After noticing derailed and capsized coaches, he promptly alerted senior officials and coordinated medical assistance. His timely action helped in the swift mobilisation of rescue and relief operations, ensuring the safety of passengers.
M Vani, chief commercial-cum-reservation supervisor, was honoured for her exemplary service in assisting passengers trapped in fire-affected AC coaches. She helped rescue the injured, coordinated evacuation, ensured uninterrupted communication with control authorities, arranged transport and essential supplies, and remained on duty continuously for three days. Her efforts contributed significantly to the rapid restoration of railway services.
In addition, the Integral Coach Factory received the award for the best production unit for 2025. Among zonal railways, Southern Railway was conferred with three efficiency shields for excellence in accounts and finance management, environment and cleanliness, and loco maintenance. RN Singh, General Manager of Southern Railway, received the awards on behalf of the zone along with other officials.