A tragic incident unfolded in Odisha on Tuesday, resulting in the loss of 38 lives and leaving over 400 individuals injured. Two trains, namely the Puri-Haridwar Kalinga Utkal Express and the Howrah-Chennai Coromandel Express, derailed near Berhampur station in Ganjam district. The exact cause of the derailment remains under investigation.
The Puri-Haridwar Kalinga Utkal Express, carrying approximately 1,000 passengers, and the Coromandel Express, carrying around 800 passengers, were involved in the mishap, which occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time.
Efforts were swiftly initiated to rescue and provide medical aid to the injured, many of whom are in critical condition. Various hospitals in the vicinity, including those in Berhampur, Bhubaneswar, and Cuttack, have been attending to the victims. The rescue operation is still underway.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and promptly ordered a high-level inquiry into the accident to determine its causes and prevent similar incidents in the future.
This tragic derailment has sent shockwaves across the nation, underscoring the pressing need for enhanced safety measures within the Indian railway system.
Additional details about the accident are as follows:
1. The derailment occurred at a sharp curve near Berhampur station.
2. The Kalinga Utkal Express was the first train to derail, with the Coromandel Express subsequently colliding with the derailed coaches.
3. The incident resulted in a fire, causing further harm to some passengers.
4. The rescue operation was impeded by heavy rainfall.
The Indian government's response includes a comprehensive investigation into the accident, with a focus on determining the cause and identifying any safety oversights. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed his condolences and assured compensation for the affected families and injured individuals.
This derailment serves as a stark reminder of the perils associated with train travel in India. The Indian railway system, one of the world's busiest, often faces issues such as overcrowding and inadequate maintenance, making it susceptible to accidents.
While efforts have been made by the government to improve safety within the railway system, further actions are imperative. Investments in upgraded infrastructure and comprehensive training for railway personnel are necessary. Additionally, stricter enforcement of safety regulations is vital to prevent such tragedies from recurring.