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A collision between an express train and a goods train in Tamil Nadu's Tiruvallur district has resulted in the derailment of at least 12 coaches, causing injuries to passengers and prompting a swift response from rescue teams and railway officials. The incident occurred on Friday evening near Kavaraipettai, a town close to Chennai, as the 12578 Mysore-Darbhanga Bagmati Express train collided with a stationary goods train.
According to reports, the express train's crew experienced a sudden jerk while entering Kavaraipettai station. The train deviated from its designated route, veering onto the loop line instead of proceeding on the main line as indicated by the signals. Traveling at a speed of 75 kmph, the train collided with the goods train that was parked on the loop line. The impact of the collision led to the derailment of multiple coaches and a fire that engulfed the express train's parcel van.
A prompt response from the authorities ensured that ambulances, medical teams, and rescue personnel reached the accident site quickly. Senior railway officials are also present at the scene to oversee the situation. Dilip Kumar, Executive Director (Information and Publicity) of Indian Railways, reported that over 95% of the passengers have been rescued from the affected coaches, and thankfully, no fatalities or severe injuries have been reported as of yet. The General Manager of Southern Railways and the Divisional Railway Manager of the Chennai division are also heading to the accident site.
The Railway Ministry, under the leadership of Ashwini Vaishnav, is actively monitoring the situation from a war room in New Delhi. Vaishnav has instructed railway authorities to ensure that injured passengers receive the necessary medical care and that remaining passengers are safely transported to their intended destinations. He has also directed all senior officials from the south zone of the railways to travel to the accident site to oversee rescue efforts and ensure their speedy completion. The incident has led to the diversion of at least seven trains, including the Chennai-New Delhi express, causing disruptions in train schedules.
The derailment has sparked concerns regarding safety protocols and operational procedures on the railway network. An investigation is underway to determine the precise cause of the collision and the derailment. The findings of this investigation will be crucial in understanding the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensuring similar accidents can be prevented in the future. Authorities are working tirelessly to restore normalcy to train operations and provide assistance to those affected by the derailment.
Source: Express Train Collides With Goods Train In Tamil Nadu, 12 Coaches Derail