19 July
News Flash
Source: PTI
Rail Accident Near Gonda Sparks Rescue Efforts and Investigation
GONDA (UP): Three passengers lost their lives and 33 others were injured when eight coaches of the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express derailed near Gonda in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. Ambulances and medical teams were quickly dispatched to the scene between Motiganj and Jhilahi railway stations, around 150 km from the state capital.
The loco pilot reported hearing a "sound of a blast" before the derailment, although no further details were provided. Initial reports on the death toll varied, with confusion stemming from the chaotic scene. Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak initially reported four fatalities, but the figure was later revised to three.
The deceased were identified as Saroj Kumar Singh (31) from Araria in Bihar, Rahul (38) from Chandigarh, and one unidentified individual. Six passengers sustained serious injuries while 26 had minor injuries.
Rescue operations faced challenges due to bad weather, but police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) managed to complete the task. Passengers began evacuating the toppled coaches even before relief teams arrived.
Witnesses recounted the moments of panic. Sandeep Kumar described how dust filled the coach and he was helped out by a fellow passenger. Dileep Singh, who was napping on an upper berth, was thrown across the coach during the accident.
A 40-member medical team and 15 ambulances were sent to the site, with more medical support following. Relief Commissioner G S Naveen confirmed the mobilization of resources.
Union Minister and local MP Kirti Vardhan Singh visited the accident site, announcing that a special train had been dispatched from Gorakhpur to transport passengers to their destination. An investigation by the railway's technical team and a high-level inquiry by the Railway Ministry and the Commission of Railway Safety have been initiated.
The Railway Ministry announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased, Rs 2.5 lakh for the grievously injured, and Rs 50,000 for those with minor injuries. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed local authorities to ensure proper medical care for the injured.
Helpline numbers were released for assistance: 8957400965 (Gonda), 8957409292 (Lucknow), and 9957555960 (Dibrugarh).