Four dead, several injured as Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express derails in UP's Gonda

Chandigarh Dibrugarh

Several coaches of  Dibrugarh bound Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express has derailed in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda. According to initial reports, four persons succumbed and several were injured during the derailment. Visuals showed passengers standing on the sides of the track with their luggage.

The accident took place near Pikaura, between Gonda and Jhilahi in Uttar Ptadesh. Rescue teams were immediately dispatched. Reacting to the incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief over the accident. He directed officials to reach the spot immediately and expedite the relief work.

"Assam CM  Himanta Biswa Sarma has been briefed about the derailment of the Dibrugarh - Chandigarh express in Uttar Pradesh. He is monitoring the situation and the Government of Assam is in touch with relevant authorities, " announced the chief minister's office.

"I had a close shave, glad to be safe. Don't worry I am fine," a passenger who was onboard the train said. Videos from the accident site showed people taking out their luggage from the derailed coaches. One of the coaches flipped and turned to its left, with some passengers standing on top of it.

Pankaj Singh, CPRO, North Eastern Railway said: "...medical van of Railways has reached the spot and rescue operation has been started. Helpline numbers have been issued. It happened around 2.37 pm. As per initial info, 4-5 coaches derailed..."

The railway medical can has reached the site and the North Eastern Railways has issued helpline numbers:

- Commercial Control: 9957555984

- Furkating (FKG): 9957555966

- Mariani (MXN): 6001882410

- Simalguri (SLGR): 8789543798

- Tinsukia (NTSK): 9957555959

- Dibrugarh (DBRG): 9957555960