In a devastating incident near Balasore, Odisha, the death toll continues to rise as 233 people are feared dead and over 900 others injured in a catastrophic train accident involving the Coromandel Express. Here are the key updates on the incident:
Late last night, tragedy struck as 10-12 coaches of the Chennai-bound Coromandel Express derailed and collided with another train from Yeswanthpur to Howrah near Balasore. The derailed coaches fell onto an adjacent track, resulting in a grave situation.
A massive rescue operation is currently underway at the accident site in Bahanaga Bazar near Balasore. Rescue teams are tirelessly working to retrieve people trapped inside the derailed coaches, making it one of the deadliest train crashes in recent Indian history.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has ordered a high-level probe into the incident to determine the cause of the derailment. Additionally, he announced financial assistance, with an ex gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased, Rs 2 lakh for the grievously injured, and Rs 50,000 for those with minor injuries.
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has declared a one-day state mourning as a mark of respect for the victims of the tragic accident. The entire state stands in solidarity with the affected families during this difficult time.
Also Read: Over 230 People Dead, 900 Injured in Three-Train Accident in Odisha
