At least 10 people were reported dead and dozens of others sustained injuries on Friday after two passenger trains collided in an area between Arakkonam and Vanchi Maniyachi stations located in the Katpadi district of Tamil Nadu, India.
The incident took place at 6.16am after the trains, Puratchi Thalapathy Express and rake Vellore Chennai Passenger crashed into each other. At the time of the incident, the Puratchi Thalapathy Express train left from Jolarpettai Junction heading to Chennai while the Vellore Chennai Passenger train was headed to Vellore. Shockingly, the driver of the Vellore Chennai passenger lost control over the train and it derailed resulting in a devastating and horrific collision.
Officials of the Indian Railways have confirmed that at least 10 people have been killed and dozens of others were injured. The Railways later announced that they have initiated a 360 degree inquiry into the incident to determine the cause of the accident.
Rescue teams have been deployed at the site to save the lives of those stuck on the trains. Shekar, one of the rescue services stated that the teams have rescued more than 30 passengers, including those who are injured. He further stated that the process of rescuing the remaining passengers will be completed soon.
The top officials have revealed that the condition of some of the passengers is so critical they are being treated in the ICU. The officials are doing everything to support the families of the deceased and have sent them compensation money of Rs. 5 lakh.
The Railway Minister, Suresh Prabhu, expressed his deep sorrow for the victims of the tragedy and also stated that relief teams have been set up to provide medical assistance to the people. Prabhu also expressed his concern for the people affected by the incident and promised that all will possible assistance will be provided to them.
This incident is one of the worst tragedies that have struck the state of Tamil Nadu in recent times, and the families of the victims are in deep shock. As of now, the cause of the accident is yet to determine which has left many in a state of uncertainty. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families as they try to come to terms with this senseless tragedy.
