Tragic Train Accident in Odisha: Railways and Government Authorities Collaborate for Restoration and Relief Efforts
Odisha, June 4, 2023 – Following the devastating train accident at Bahanaga Bazar Station in Balasore district, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with a team of dedicated railway officials, is present at the site, working tirelessly to restore normal operations. The Down Main Line was declared fit for use at 12:05 PM, and intensive efforts are underway to expedite the restoration process.
Expressing deep concern for the affected individuals, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has directed officials to extend financial assistance to the victims and their families. An ex-gratia amount of Rs 10 lakhs will be provided to the kin of the deceased, Rs 5 lakhs to those seriously injured, and Rs 1 lakh to individuals with minor injuries. This assistance is in addition to the aid already provided by the central government.
The accident, which involved the Bengaluru-Howrah Express, the Coromandel Express, and a goods train at Bahanaga Bazar Station, resulted in the derailment and severe damage of 17 coaches from these two trains.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of 275 individuals, while 1,175 people sustained injuries. The injured passengers were promptly treated, with 336 individuals already discharged after receiving medical care. Presently, 382 individuals are undergoing treatment, and their well-being remains a priority.
Rescue operations have been underway with the coordinated efforts of multiple teams, including 9 NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams, 5 ODRAF (Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force) units, and 24 Fire Services & Emergency units. The operation has been conducted round the clock, with the assistance of tower lights for nighttime operations. More than 100 medical teams, equipped with essential supplies, have been mobilized to provide medical treatment. Over 200 ambulances have been deployed to transport the injured to hospitals, and provisions for food and drinking water have been made for stranded passengers at various stations.
To ensure seamless transportation for passengers, the Chief Minister has announced free bus services from Puri, Bhubaneswar, and Cuttack to Kolkata until normal train services are restored on the Balasore route. The entire cost of the service will be covered by the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
The situation is being closely monitored by various dignitaries, including the Prime Minister, who visited the accident site to assess the situation and met with injured passengers at the District Headquarter Hospital in Balasore. The Hon’ble Governor of Odisha also visited the site and interacted with the injured passengers at CHC in Soro and Balasore. In addition, the Union Railway Minister and the Chief Minister of West Bengal conducted separate visits to review the situation and provide necessary support.
Helpline numbers have been set up at Balasore and Bhubaneswar to facilitate communication with the families of the deceased and the stranded passengers. Individuals in need of assistance can reach out to the toll-free numbers 18003450061 and 1929 (available 24×7). Nodal officers have been assigned to address specific queries and concerns.
As a mark of respect for the departed souls, the State of Odisha is observing a day of mourning today. South Eastern Railway has taken necessary measures, including the cancellation of 33 trains and the diversion of 36 trains to alternate routes.
The State Emergency Operation Center, located at Rajiv Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, is functioning round the clock to coordinate relief efforts. Chief Secretary, along with other senior officials, is diligently monitoring the situation to ensure an effective response.
Lastly, in a compassionate gesture, the Chief Minister, Odisha announced ex-gratia assistance for the victims of the train tragedy. The next of kin of the deceased will receive an assistance of Rs. 5 lakh, while those who sustained serious injuries will be provided Rs. 1 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
The authorities continue to work diligently to restore normalcy, provide aid, and extend support to those affected by this tragic incident.
