An alert driver averted a major train accident near Chhipyana bridge, 10 km from Ghaziabad junction, as a coach of a Delhi-bound train derailed, haulting traffic for hours. According to Railway sources, the Delhi-bound Gaya Mahabodhi Express derailed on Wednesday evening, apparently due to a technical fault.

The coach derailed as a technical fault occurred when the train was to change track, however, removal of fish plates can not be avoided, General Manager, Northern Railway, Mr H.C. Joshi, said.

A major mishap was averted as the train's driver applied emergency break to control the high speed train, he said.

Follwoing the derailment, traffic on the route was disrupted for four hours. Three Rajdhani trains and one Shatabadi Express were also affected.

The derailed coach, 09448, was separated from the train and later brought back to the railway station here. The train was allowed to proceed after repair and clearance of the track.

A technical inquiry has been ordered into the incident, said Mr Joshi, who visited the spot along with police and railway officials.

They hailed the train's driver for his alertness which averted a major mishap.