Kamakhya Express train mishap in Odisha: 1 dead, 7 injured

A tragic rail mishap occurred on Sunday when 11 coaches of the SMVT Bengaluru-Kamakhya AC Superfast Express (Train 12551) derailed near the Nirgundi railway station in the Choudwar area of Cuttack at approximately 11:54 am.

As of the latest updates, reports confirmed one fatality and seven injuries. Four of the injured were rushed to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, where they are receiving medical attention.

Cause and Response

The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has launched an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the derailment but has not settled on a confirmed decision so far.

ECoR’s Chief Public Relations Officer stated that a detailed investigation will ascertain the precise reason behind the accident.

In response, the Khordha Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) and a special rescue train were dispatched to the site.

Senior officials have been overseeing the rescue operations and providing necessary assistance to passengers. Restoration work began immediately to clear the tracks and restore normalcy. Several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) also stepped in to provide aid to those affected.

Train Services Affected

The derailment led to the diversion of multiple trains, including the Dhauli Express (12822), Neelachal Express (12875), and Purulia SF Express (22606).

The railway has issued helpline numbers for stranded passengers: Bhubaneswar (8455885999) and Cuttack (8991124238). Authorities have assured that all stranded passengers will be transported to their destinations via a special train from Bhubaneswar.