Addressing the media on Saturday regarding Bagmati Express accident, Union Minister of State for Railways V Somanna said that a major tragedy was averted. Additionally, he confirmed that arrangements have been made to assist stranded passengers in reaching their destinations.
Somanna emphasized, “Yesterday was an auspicious day; a major tragedy was averted in the accident.” He reported that 19 individuals were injured, with two passengers sustaining serious injuries. Fortunately, there were no reported fatalities. The incident involved the derailment of 13 bogies.
To facilitate passenger movement, all affected individuals have been transferred to MEMU trains. The ministry is also organizing food and accommodation for those impacted. “By the grace of God, a big tragedy has been averted. A probe will be conducted to ascertain the cause of the accident,” he added.
Also Read: 19 Injured In Bagmati Express Derailment; Southern Railway Launches Investigation
The Mysuru-Darbhanga Express collided with a goods train at Kavaraipettai Railway Station around 8:30 PM on Friday. This occurred in the Chennai-Gudur section, located approximately 46 km from Chennai.
In response to the accident, South Western Railways announced diversions for several trains departing from Bengaluru on Saturday.
- Train No. 12551, traveling from Bengaluru to Kamakhya, will be diverted via Dharmavaram and Vijayawada, skipping stops at Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Perambur, and Gudur.
- Train No. 12295, running between Bengaluru and Danapur, will also be diverted via Dharmavaram, Kazipet, and Ramagundam, bypassing numerous stations including Krishnarajapuram, Bangarapet, and Nellore.
- Train No. 12509, which left Bengaluru for Guwahati on Friday, will be diverted to run via Katpadi, Melpakkam, Renigunta, and Gudur, with an additional stop at Tiruttani and skipping Arakkonam and Perambur.
Additionally, the minister assured that the Railways is committed to ensuring passenger safety and comfort following this incident.