13 dead, several injured in Andhra train accident, know how it occurred

Visakhapatnam: In a harrowing incident, two coaches of the Visakhapatnam-Palasa Passenger train and the locomotive of the Visakhapatnam-Rayagada passenger train derailed in Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh on Sunday evening. The fatal accident resulted in the death of thirteen individuals, while more than 50 people got injured.

Rescue operations are currently in progress, with the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Waltair and his team present at the accident site. Accident Relief Trains and various rescue equipment have been promptly mobilized, and helpline numbers have been issued to provide assistance to the affected passengers.

Eleven coaches from the front of the 08532 Visakhapatnam-Palasa train have safely reached the Alamanda station, while the rear nine coaches of the 08504 Visakhapatnam-Rayagada train were pulled back to the Kantakapalle station. Apart from the derailed and affected coaches, all other coaches have been cleared from the accident site.

All injured individuals have been swiftly transferred to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

In response to the tragic incident, Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced ex-gratia compensation for the victims’ families. A sum of ₹10 lakh will be provided in the case of a fatality, ₹2 lakh for grievous injuries, and ₹50,000 for minor injuries.