Chennai: Twelve coaches of an express train derailed following a collision with a stationary goods train in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district. Reports indicate that ten passengers sustained injuries and have been taken to a nearby hospital, while the express train’s parcel van caught fire.
Officials stated that the 12578 Mysore-Darbhanga Bagmati Express collided with the goods train at Kavaraipettai, near Chennai, around 8:30 PM on Friday. Sources revealed that as the express train approached Kavaraipettai station, the crew felt a sudden jolt. Rather than proceeding onto the main line as indicated by the signal, the train entered the loop line at a speed of 75 km/h and collided with the parked goods train.
Ambulances and medical teams have arrived at the scene, along with senior railway officials. Dilip Kumar, Executive Director (Information and Publicity) for Indian Railways, reported, “We have confirmed an accident involving the 12578 Bagmati Express. More than 95% of the passengers have been evacuated from the affected coaches, and there have been no reports of fatalities or serious injuries at this time.”
The General Manager of Southern Railways and the Divisional Railway Manager of the Chennai division are en route to the location. Arrangements are being made to assist the remaining passengers in reaching their destinations, and the train’s crew and guard are reported safe.
Helpline Numbers:
Chennai Division
044 25354151
044 24354995
Samastipur
06274-81029188
Darbhanga
06272-8210335395
Deendayal Upadhyay Junction
7525039558