Major tragedy has struck Indian Railways late on Tuesday night. Two trains Mumbai-Varanasi bound Kamayani Express and Jabalpur-Mumbai bound Janata Express were derailed at the same area while crossing a culvert on Machak river.
Train Bogies Fell into Machak River
At around 11.45 PM near Harda (160 Kms from Bhopal), seven bogies of Kamayani express was derailed and plunged into river resulting in a great tragedy. Knowing about this tragedy, locals rushed to the spot and rescued over 300 people. In between, Janata Express coming in the opposite direction on the adjoining track also suffered similar fate. The Engine and three coaches of Janata Express too plunged into river.
Casualties
At least 22 people were killed and several others were injured in the twin train tragedy as per the information available. The number of casualties is expected to increase.
Possible Reason Behind Tragedy
The railway department is suspecting that excessive water on tracks would be the possible reason behind derailment. Apparently burst in a nearby dam resulted in the sudden flow of water on the tracks and that resulted in the tragedy.
Ex gratia
An ex gratia of Rs 2 Lakh has been announced by the Railway department to the families of victims. Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu stated, “Enquiry ordered,Ex gratia to be paid immediately.Flooding of tracks due to very heavy downpour.Will make detailed statement to parliament.”
Helpline Numbers
Mumbai: 02225280005
Bhopal: 07554001609
Harda: 09752460088
Bina: 07580222580
Itarsi: 07572241920
Kalyan: 02512311499
Thane: 0225334840