RNS I Vizianagaram: A devastating train collision in the Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh has left at least 13 individuals dead and over 50 others seriously injured. The tragic incident occurred yesterday evening when two trains collided, resulting in a catastrophic derailment.
According to a senior official from the East Coast Railway, the collision took place at Kankatapalli when the Palasa Passenger train collided with the Rayagada Passenger train from behind. The impact of the collision caused three coaches to derail, leading to the loss of lives and extensive injuries to passengers on board.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw immediately initiated rescue operations. He confirmed that state government and railway teams were working diligently in close coordination to provide aid and support to the affected passengers.
Minister announced a series of compensations for the victims and their families, demonstrating the government’s commitment to helping those affected by this devastating incident.
The compensation includes 10 lakh rupees for the families of the deceased, 2.5 lakh rupees for those who suffered grievous injuries, and 50 thousand rupees for those with minor injuries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was in constant communication with Railway Minister Vaishnaw, expressed his deep condolences to the bereaved families and offered his prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.
PM announced a separate ex-gratia relief fund of two lakh rupees from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased victim. Additionally, 50 thousand rupees would be provided to each of the injured passengers.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Andhra Pradesh government also stepped forward to assist the victims and their families. The state government announced an ex-gratia compensation of 10 lakh rupees for the families of the deceased, along with 2 lakh rupees for the injured residents of the state.
Furthermore, a compensation of 2 lakh rupees was pledged to the families of the deceased from other states and 50,000 rupees each for the injured passengers from outside Andhra Pradesh.
The tragic train collision has left a community in mourning and a nation in shock. As the affected families cope with their losses and injuries, the combined efforts of the central and state governments aim to provide support, relief, and assistance to those impacted by this devastating incident.