RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF DEATHS DUE TO RAILWAY ACCIDENTS – AN AUTOPSY BASED STUDY

Abstract

Railway accidents are a significant cause of unnatural deaths, with fatal consequences often involving severe injuries and hemorrhage. This retrospective autopsy-based study was conducted at Government Medical College, Thiruvallur, analyzing railway accident fatalities over a period of 1 year from June 2021 to May 2022. A total number of 63 cases were examined using forensic autopsy records, police inquest reports, and hospital documentation. The study aimed to analyze the demographic profile, causes, and injury patterns associated with railway fatalities. The analysis of railway accident victims (N=63) reveals that males (88.9%) were significantly more affected than females (11.1%), with the highest incidence in the age group of 41-50 years. Accidents occurred most frequently on Mondays (20.6%) and Fridays (19.0%), with the lowest incidence on Saturdays (6.3%). Seasonally, the highest cases were recorded in summer and winter (36.5% each), while the rainy season accounted for 27.0% of cases. Head injuries were the most common cause of death (47.6%), followed by lower extremities (20.3%), and multiple body injuries (15.9%). Skull fractures (90.5%) and amputations (60.3%) were the most severe injuries. Over half of the victims (57.1%) were declared dead on arrival, while 42.9% died instantly on the spot. The leading cause of accidents was crossing the track to catch a train (39.7%), followed by being hit by a running train (33.3%) and committing suicide (19.0%). Overall, accidental deaths (79.4%) were more common than suicides (20.6%), emphasizing the need for enhanced railway safety measures. These findings highlight the urgent need for improved railway safety measures, including the placement of barriers, warning systems, and public awareness campaigns. The high prevalence of undetermined deaths also underscores the need for enhanced forensic investigations. Addressing these issues through policy interventions and infrastructure improvements could significantly reduce railway-related fatalities.