Title: Andhra Train Tragedy: 13 Fatalities, 40 Injured; Ongoing Rescue Efforts - Key Highlights Updates
Introduction
On 29 October, a collision occurred between the Visakhapatnam-Ragada passenger train and the Visakhapatnam-Palasa passenger train, resulting in the derailment of several coaches in Andhra Pradesh's Vizianagaram district. The Divisional Railway Manager reported that three coaches were directly involved in the incident. Immediate action was taken, and local administration, as well as the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), were promptly informed for assistance, along with the dispatch of accident relief trains to the site. Rescue operations are currently underway.
Key Highlights in this Significant Story:
Train Collision in Visakhapatnam-Palasa Route
In a tragic turn of events, a special passenger train en route from Visakhapatnam to Palasa faced a dire situation. Stranded on the main line between Alamanda and Kantakapalle due to a signal malfunction, the train encountered a devastating collision when it was struck from behind by the Vizag-Rayagada passenger train. This incident underscores the critical importance of robust railway safety protocols.
Derailed Coaches and Locomotive in Visakhapatnam
The Statement from Biswajit Sahu, CPRO, East Coast Railway: Last Two Coaches of Visakhapatnam-Palasa Train and Locomotive of Visakhapatnam-Rayagada Passenger Train Derail
Tragic Train Collision: Death Toll Rises to 13, Rescue Operations Ongoing
According to Vizianagaram Collector Nagalakshmi, the death toll has tragically risen from nine last night to 13. She expressed hope in completing the rescue efforts by this morning. Meanwhile, Superintendent of Police M. Deepika reported that at least 40 individuals have been injured and are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals.
Train Accident Update: 18 Trains Cancelled, 22 Diverted; Loco Pilot Blamed for Collision
In a recent update, Mr. Sahu informed NDTV this morning that a total of eighteen trains have been cancelled, with an additional twenty-two trains being diverted. He stated that the accident was attributed to the Vizag-Rayagada loco pilot, who unfortunately lost his life in the collision. Earlier reports from railway sources indicated that the loco pilot failed to notice the signaling error that led to the tragic incident.
Aftermath of the Train Collision: Derailed Coaches and Swift Response
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that pictures from the site last evening depicted derailed coaches with a crowd of concerned onlookers. However, apart from the derailed and affected coaches, the site was successfully cleared by midnight, showcasing a commendable response from the authorities.
Relief Measures Announced for Victims of the Train Collision
The Railway Minister has declared financial aid packages for the victims of the train collision. Families of the deceased will receive ₹10 lakh in assistance. Those who sustained serious injuries will be provided with ₹2.5 lakh, while passengers with minor injuries will receive ₹50,000, as announced by the minister.
Prime Minister Modi Extends Condolences and Announces Additional Relief
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has personally assessed the situation and expressed his heartfelt condolences for the lives lost in the tragic accident. In a further gesture of support, he has announced an additional ₹2 lakh assistance for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for those who have sustained injuries.
Delhi Railway Ministry's War Room Monitors Situation; Helpline Numbers Released
According to a source from the Railways, the war room at the Delhi railway ministry is actively overseeing the situation. The East Coast Railway has also made available important helpline numbers for assistance: Bhubaneswar - 0674-2301625, 2301525, 2303069, and Waltair - 0891-2885914.
.png)
