In a significant development, passenger train services have resumed on the repaired tracks in Odisha’s Balasore, following a triple train collision that occurred more than 51 hours ago.
The restoration works were carried out diligently and swiftly, allowing the up and down lines to be operational once again. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who oversaw the resumption of services, expressed his well-wishes for the passengers and crew.
The reconstruction efforts commenced promptly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued directives for the same. Vaishnaw, while speaking to a news agency, credited the entire restoration team for their systematic and dedicated work in fixing the damaged rails, following the advice and instructions from the Prime Minister.
Before resuming services, both the up and down lines were thoroughly tested, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the tracks. The accident, which claimed the lives of 275 people (after a revision from the initial count of 288), occurred due to a change in electronic interlocking, as revealed by Vaishnaw earlier.
Odisha’s Chief Secretary, Pradeep Jena, clarified that out of the 1,175 injured individuals, 793 have already been discharged after receiving medical treatment.
The tragic collision involved the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express, the Coromandel Express, and a goods train on separate tracks at Bahanaga Bazar station in the Balasore district.
Over 1,000 workers were engaged in repairing the damaged tracks, ensuring a swift restoration process. The resumption of passenger train services marks a significant milestone in recovering from one of India’s most devastating train accidents in recent history.