Early Morning Disaster: Howrah-Mumbai Express Derails After Collision with Freight Train, Multiple Casualties

Accident Details

The Howrah-Mumbai Express derailed near Rajkharsuan, under Chakradharpur division, early today at 3:45 AM. The accident occurred when the train collided with a freight train, resulting in the derailment of 18 coaches, including 16 passenger coaches, a pantry car, and a power car.

Casualties and Injuries

Initially, over 50 passengers were reported injured. Unfortunately, the number of injured passengers has now increased to over 150. Additionally, two passengers, Ajit Samal and T. Bikash Rao, both from Rourkela, have tragically lost their lives in the accident.

Rescue Operations

Railway officials and RPF personnel are present at the site, conducting rescue operations. Senior railway officers, including the Chakradharpur division’s ADRM, have arrived at the scene to oversee the efforts. The rescue operations are ongoing, and the Railways has issued helpline numbers for assistance: Tatanagar (06572290324), Chakradharpur (06587238072), Rourkela (06612501072), Howrah (9433357920), and Ranchi (06512787115).

Impact on Train Services

As a result of the derailment, three trains have been canceled, and several others have been rerouted. The canceled trains include the Howrah-Titlagarh-Kantabanji Ispat Express, Kharagpur-Dhanbad, Howrah-Bhubaneswar-Howrah Jan Shatabdi, Tatanagar-Itwari Express, and Salimah-LTT Express. Four other trains have been partially canceled, and 17 trains have had their routes altered.

Passenger Assistance

To assist stranded passengers, additional train services have been arranged from Chakradharpur station. The Howrah-Mumbai Express typically carries many Odia passengers as it travels through Jharsuguda and Rourkela. Helpline numbers for Jharsuguda and Rourkela have been activated to aid the affected passengers.

Cause of the Accident

The exact cause of the derailment remains unclear. However, it has been noted that a freight train had previously derailed on the same route, which might have contributed to the incident. Investigations are ongoing to determine the precise circumstances leading to this tragic accident.

The Railways is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its passengers and will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.