A tragic train accident took place near Nergundi Station in the Cuttack district of Odisha on Sunday morning (March 30), when the 12551 Bangalore-Kamakhya AC Superfast Express derailed. The incident occurred around 11:54 AM, leaving one passenger dead and eight others injured.
The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) is expected to begin an investigation soon to find out what exactly caused the derailment.
What Happened?
The train, which was on its way from Bangalore to Kamakhya (Assam), derailed near Nergundi Station, which falls under the Khurda Road Division of the East Coast Railway (ECoR). A total of 11 coaches went off the track, disrupting railway operations in the area.
Casualties and Compensation
According to ECoR officials, Suvankar Roy, a 22-year-old passenger from West Bengal, sadly lost his life in the accident. One female passenger sustained serious injuries, while seven others suffered minor injuries.
Indian Railways has announced financial help for the victims and their families:
- ₹5 lakh for the family of the deceased
- ₹2 lakh for the grievously injured female passenger
- ₹50,000 each for those with minor injuries
Officials stated that medical assistance was provided immediately at the site, and compensation payments have already been initiated.
Rescue and Relief Measures
Soon after the derailment, multiple emergency response teams rushed to the scene. These included:
- Local administration
- East Coast Railway officials
- Fire services
- Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF)
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
These teams worked together to rescue the trapped passengers, provide medical care, and clear the damaged coaches.
Meanwhile, basic facilities like food, water, and first aid were arranged at the site for the stranded passengers. After initial relief efforts, a special train was arranged by ECoR to help passengers continue their journey to their destinations.
Impact on Rail Services
The derailment caused disruptions in train movement. Trains on the Howrah–Visakhapatnam UP Line continued to operate, but the Down Line traffic was diverted. Instead of the usual Barang-Cuttack-Nergundi route, trains were rerouted via the Barang-Naraj-Kapilas Road.
Railway’s Response
The East Coast Railway issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and condolences to the family of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. They also assured the public that a detailed probe will be conducted to prevent such mishaps in the future.
