Eight coaches of Meerut-Lucknow Rajya Rani Express derailed near Rampur in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday leaving at least two passengers injured, railway officials said.
The accident happened between Mundapandey and Rampur railway stations, Northern railway spokesperson Neeraj Sharma said.
Railways sources said two of the eight affected coaches have capsized. Earlier, police officials in Rampur had said 15 passengers were injured and rushed to hospital.
Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu ordered an enquiry to ascertain causes behind the accident.
Personally monitoring situation.Directed senior officers to rush to the spot.Ensure speedy relief and rescue operations 1/ https://t.co/lNoLkDHcI6
— Suresh Prabhu (@sureshpprabhu) April 15, 2017
Enquiry ordered to look into the cause,strict action will be taken against any lapse 2/
— Suresh Prabhu (@sureshpprabhu) April 15, 2017
An ex gratia of Rs.50,000 to be given to the injured 3/
— Suresh Prabhu (@sureshpprabhu) April 15, 2017
“Personally monitoring situation.Directed senior officers to rush to the spot. Ensure speedy relief and rescue operations(sic),” he wrote on Twitter.
He said strict action will be taken against those found guilty.
Moradabad Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) has reached the spot to oversee the rescue and relief operations. A medical team has also reached, Sharma said.
A few helplines have been opened by the Railways to facilitate relatives of the passengers.
Meanwhile, Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu also announced a compensation of Rs 50,000 for the passengers injured in the derailment.
Feature image source: ANI/Twitter
