Andhra Pradesh Train Accident: Over 12 Trains Cancelled, 15 Diverted; Recovery Efforts Underway

In a shocking turn of events, a collision between two trains in Andhra Pradesh's Vizianagaram on Sunday evening, 29th October, has led to the cancellation of 12 trains, diversion of 15, and partial cancellation of 7 others, according to a statement by an East Coast Railway official.

The collision occurred in Vizianagaram, and Biswajit Sahu, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of East Coast Railway, shared insights into the situation, stating, "...12 trains have been cancelled...15 trains diverted and there is partial cancellation of 7 trains. We have made bus arrangements for passengers so that they are not trapped in the area...We have partially recovered (the tracks) and made bus arrangements for passengers so that they are not trapped in the area." as quoted by ANI.

As per Sahu, the accident was a result of the rear train overshooting the signal, leading to the unfortunate collision. An inquiry into the incident is currently underway to determine the exact circumstances that led to this mishap.

Tragically, the collision claimed 13 lives, with 50 individuals sustaining injuries as coaches derailed when the Visakhapatnam-Ragada passenger train collided with another Visakhapatnam-Ragada train traveling on the same route in Vizianagaram district in Andhra Pradesh last evening, 29th October.

Railway Ministry has issued the following directives of cancelled/diverted trains following the accident as of now:

The Divisional Railway Manager was quoted saying, "There was a rear collision between the Visakhapatnam-Palasa passenger train and the Visakhapatnam-Ragada passenger train. 3 coaches were involved in the accident and 10 were injured. Rescue operations are underway, Local administration and NDRF were informed for assistance and ambulances. Accident relief trains reached the site,"

The Ministry of Railways has provided helpline numbers in the wake of this accident as well.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy acted swiftly, ordering immediate relief measures and the dispatch of as many ambulances as possible from Visakhapatnam and Anakapalli, which are the nearest districts to Vizianagaram.

Furthermore, instructions were given to make all necessary arrangements in nearby hospitals to ensure that the injured individuals receive prompt and quality medical care. The Chief Minister's Office conveyed his proactive approach, stating, "Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy ordered to take immediate relief measures and to send as many ambulances as possible from Visakhapatnam and Anakapalli, the nearest districts of Vizianagaram, and to make all kinds of arrangements in nearby hospitals to provide good medical care," as posted on CMO's X (formerly twitter) handle.

CMO further added, "The Chief Minister has issued orders to coordinate other government departments including health, police and revenue to take quick-relief measures and ensure that the injured receive prompt medical services,"

Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy would also be visiting the accident site today as well as the hospitals where the injured are being treated.