In a devastating incident on Thursday evening, the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express derailed near Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, leaving one person dead and several others injured. The derailment, which occurred just a few kilometers before the Jhulahi railway station, saw 21 out of the train’s 23 coaches overturned, including AC compartments and the pantry car.
The driver of the train reported hearing a loud explosion moments before the derailment, sparking immediate concerns over the cause of the accident. Medical and emergency response teams rushed to the scene to attend to the injured passengers, many of whom were seen standing helplessly amidst the wreckage in visuals from the site.
Passengers who survived recounted harrowing experiences, with one expressing relief at having escaped unharmed amidst the chaos. Videos showed passengers retrieving their belongings from overturned coaches, highlighting the chaotic aftermath of the tragedy.
Authorities swiftly initiated a high-level inquiry into the incident to determine the exact cause of the derailment. Compensation packages were announced for the victims: ₹10 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives, ₹2.5 lakh for those with serious injuries, and ₹50,000 for those sustaining minor injuries.
In response to the crisis, several trains on the affected route, including the Katihar-Amritsar Express and Guwahati-Shrimata Vaishnodevi Katra Express, were either canceled or diverted to ensure safety and operational integrity.
Political reactions also emerged, with the Congress party demanding accountability from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge called for their resignation, attributing the incident to alleged lapses in railway safety and management.
Chief Ministers Himanta Biswa Sarma of Assam and Yogi Adityanath of Uttar Pradesh were briefed on the situation and assured that necessary measures were being taken to transport the injured to hospitals and provide them with adequate medical care.
This tragic derailment adds to recent concerns over railway safety in India, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to prevent such incidents in the future. As investigations continue, condolences pour in for the deceased and hopes for a swift recovery are extended to the injured.
Sources By Agencies
