Tragedy struck as four passenger died while twenty others sustained injuries when several coaches of the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express derailed near Pikaura, Uttar Pradesh, today, as per latest reports from the ground.
The accident occurred at around 2:35 pm.
The incident occurred between Gonda and Jhilahi, prompting swift response from rescue teams.
Out of the 12 coaches affected, four AC compartments derailed just kilometers before Jhulahi railway station.
Visuals from the scene depicted passengers retrieving their belongings from the overturned coaches, with some perched atop a flipped carriage.
"I had a close shave, glad to be safe. Don't worry I am fine," recounted a passenger who narrowly escaped harm.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath swiftly directed officials to expedite relief efforts and ensure prompt treatment for the injured. Emergency rescue teams from Gonda were promptly dispatched to assist at the site.
Train number 15904, en route from Chandigarh to Dibrugarh, faced disruption due to the derailment, which occurred in the vicinity of Pikaura. Authorities are yet to confirm the full extent of casualties or injuries resulting from the accident.
A contingent of army personnel was deployed to support local administration in the ongoing relief and rescue operations.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as the train veered off track, prompting passengers to evacuate once it halted. The derailment has underscored safety concerns on the railway route between Chandigarh and Dibrugarh.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's proactive response aimed at ensuring immediate relief and medical attention reflects the severity of the situation.
The incident has disrupted normal railway operations in the region, with authorities continuing to assess the aftermath and assist affected passengers.
The Railway Board has issued the following helpline numbers - Commercial Control:
9957555984, Furkating (FKG): 9957555966, Mariani (MXN): 6001882410, Simalguri (SLGR): 8789543798, Tinsukia (NTSK): 9957555959, Dibrugarh (DBRG): 9957555960.
This is a developing story...