In a tragic incident, at least four people lost their lives and several others were injured when eight coaches of the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express derailed in Uttar Pradesh’s Gonda district. The accident took place on Thursday between the Motiganj and Jhilahi railway stations.
The ill-fated train, bearing the number 15904, was on its regular route from Chandigarh to Dibrugarh in Assam when the derailment occurred. Passengers on board were thrown into chaos as the train skidded off the tracks, leading to a horrifying scene of twisted metal and shattered glass.
As soon as the derailment was reported, emergency rescue operations were launched promptly. Senior railway officials and local administration authorities quickly arrived at the site to oversee the rescue efforts. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued immediate directives to speed up relief and rescue operations, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
A significant rescue operation has been mobilized, involving a 40-member medical team and 15 ambulances. Additional medical resources are being dispatched to ensure that all injured passengers receive prompt medical attention. The rescue teams are working tirelessly to extract survivors from the wreckage and provide necessary medical aid.
The derailment has severely disrupted railway services in the region, affecting at least 13 trains. This includes several diversions and cancellations, particularly impacting the Lucknow-Gonda-Gorakhpur route. Passengers planning to travel on this route are facing significant delays and inconveniences as railway officials work to manage the aftermath of the incident.
Preliminary reports from Railway Ministry officials have indicated that the train’s loco pilot heard a loud explosion just before the derailment. This has led to speculation about possible track sabotage, raising concerns about the safety and security of the railway network. Authorities are not ruling out any possibilities and are investigating all potential causes, including track conditions and maintenance records.
The Railway Ministry has assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the derailment. They are examining all aspects of the incident, including the possibility of foul play. Meanwhile, railway officials are focused on restoring normalcy to the affected routes and ensuring the safety of passengers.
The community in Gonda district has shown remarkable solidarity in the wake of this tragedy. Local residents have been seen assisting rescue teams, providing water and food to those affected, and offering comfort to distressed passengers. The state government has also pledged to provide all necessary support to the victims and their families.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the derailment. He has also assured that the government will take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future and enhance the safety of railway travel in the state.
As rescue operations continue and the investigation progresses, the focus remains on supporting the victims and their families during this difficult time. The railway authorities are committed to identifying the cause of the derailment and implementing measures to prevent a recurrence.
