In a devastating incident, the 15904 Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express derailed in Uttar Pradesh’s Gonda district on Thursday, causing ten coaches to overturn. Initial media reports confirm that four passengers have tragically lost their lives, and around 20 others have sustained serious injuries. The death toll is feared to rise as rescue operations continue.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath quickly responded to the calamity, directing officials to expedite rescue and relief efforts. “The train accident in Gonda district is extremely sad. District administration officials have been directed to carry out relief and rescue operations on a war footing and to take the injured to the hospital on top priority and provide them proper treatment. I pray to Lord Shri Ram for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he tweeted.
Shortly after the derailment, videos began surfacing on social media, showing the overturned coaches and derailed train. These videos capture locals and other passengers rushing to provide first aid to the injured, highlighting the immediate community response to the tragedy.
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The exact cause of the derailment remains unknown, and investigations are underway. Both loco pilots have been reported safe, adding a sliver of relief amidst the chaos.
Political Reactions and Safety Concerns
The incident has sparked significant political reactions. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Modi government for compromising rail safety. He highlighted the necessity of installing the Kavach anti-collision system to prevent future mishaps. “The derailment of Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express in UP, is yet another instance of how Modi Govt has systematically jeopardised Rail safety. Our deepest condolences to the families of the bereaved, and our thoughts and prayers are with the injured,” Kharge stated.
Kharge also pointed out past incidents, such as the recent collision involving the Sealdah-Agartala Kanchanjunga Express, which resulted in 11 fatalities. He stressed that failures in automatic signaling, operational lapses, and the lack of critical safety equipment were highlighted in the probe reports of these accidents.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Railway Minister have faced criticism for not taking adequate steps to ensure rail safety. Kharge’s demand for the swift implementation of the Kavach system underscores the urgency for enhanced safety measures on Indian Railways.
Previous Incidents Highlight Ongoing Safety Issues
This tragic event adds to a series of recent train accidents in India. Just two days prior, the engine and a coach of the Kamrup Express detached in Assam’s Dibrugarh district, although no casualties were reported in that incident. These recurring mishaps highlight persistent safety issues within the Indian Railways system, necessitating immediate and effective interventions.