Chennai Train Services Resume After Mysuru-Darbhanga Express Derailment

The first train since the derailment of the Mysuru-Darbhanga Bagmati Express has passed through the Ponneri-Kavaraipettai railway station, marking a significant step in the ongoing restoration efforts.

The Southern Railway cleared the Up main line on Sunday morning, just two days after a collision between the passenger train and a goods train led to the derailment of 12-13 coaches on October 11, as reported by ANI.

Photo Credit: PTI

The accident, which took place around 46 kilometers from Chennai, left 19 people injured, though no fatalities were reported. Southern Railway General Manager RN Singh praised the quick response of medical and railway teams, noting that injured passengers were treated and are expected to be discharged by the evening. Singh also confirmed that restoration work would be completed by Saturday night to ensure minimal disruption to the rail network.

Following the accident, stranded passengers were promptly transported by buses and special Electric Multiple Units (EMU) to Ponneri and Chennai Central. At Chennai Central, railway doctors conducted medical checkups, and passengers were provided with food and water. A special Passenger Service departed from Dr. MGR Chennai Central station at 4:45 a.m., heading to Darbhanga via Arakkonam, Renigunta, and Gudur, as per ANI reports.

The Commissioner of Railway Safety for the Southern Circle, Anant Madhukar Chowdhary, visited the accident site to launch an investigation. Chowdhary stated that he is conducting a thorough inspection and taking statements from witnesses, with the inquiry set to begin next week. A high-level inquiry has also been ordered to determine the cause of the derailment.

Due to the incident, several other trains were rescheduled and diverted as restoration efforts continue at the Ponneri-Kavaraipettai stretch, aiming to fully reopen the route for regular service soon.