A rail tragedy occurred in Andhra Pradesh when a passenger train failed to stop at a signal and collided with another train on the Howrah-Chennai line. Thirteen individuals lost their lives in the accident, and 40 others sustained injuries.
A special passenger train between Visakhapatnam and Palasa was on restricted speed on the main line between Alamanda and Kantakapalle due to no signal when a Vizag-Rayagada passenger train hit it from behind.
The last three coaches of the Visakhapatnam-Palasa train and the locomotive of the Visakhapatnam-Rayagada passenger train along with two coaches, got derailed, DRM Saurabh Prasad told NDTV. One coach derailed and rested on a goods train wagon on one side.
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Andhra Pradesh Rail Accident Update: Death Toll Rises to 13
The death count increased to 13 from nine last night, Vizianagaram Collector Nagalakshmi confirmed to NDTV, hoping to complete the rescue efforts by this morning. At least 40 were injured and are being treated at various hospitals.
Eighteen trains have been cancelled so far and 22 diverted, Mr Biswajit Sahu, PRO, told NDTV this morning. He said the accident may have occurred due to the fault of the Vizag-Rayagada loco pilot, who died in the impact of the collision. Railways sources had earlier said that signalling may not have been noticed by the loco pilot.
Pictures from the site last evening showed the coaches derailed and people crowding around. Except the derailed and affected coaches, the site was cleared by midnight, said Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
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Financial Aid Announced for Victims
Chief Minister YSR Jagan Mohan Reddy has announced financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh for the family of those who died. Those who suffered serious injuries will get Rs 2.5 lakh and passengers with minor injuries will get Rs 50,000.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reviewed the situation and condoled the loss of lives. He announced another Rs 2 lakh assistance for the family of those who died in the accident and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
The Railway Minister had a conversation with Chief Minister Reddy, who expressed profound sorrow over the accident and instructed that all necessary arrangements be made for the treatment of the injured. Mr. Reddy also requested regular updates on the incident’s status.
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