Utkal express derailment update: Rescue ops begin; 15-20 passengers feared injured
August 19, 2017  19:19
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Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu said he is personally monitoring the situation and he has instructed senior officers to 'reach the site and ensure speedy rescue'.

'Have instructed Chairman Railway Board, Member Traffic to oversee rescue and relief operations,' Prabhu tweeted.

'Medical vans rushed to the site. All efforts being taken to ensure speedy relief and rescue operations,' he said in another tweet.

'Have ordered inquiry to ascertain the cause. Strict action will be taken against any lapse,' Prabhu tweeted.

Northern Railways CPRO Neeraj Sharma said that, as per reports, there are injuries to a few passengers.

"DM Muzaffarnagar is about to reach the train derailment site," he said.

Sharma said alternative vehicles for stranded passengers are being arranged.

"As many as 15-20 passengers injured according to unverified initial reports," Sharma said.

However, Anil Saxena of the Indian Railways said there is no authentic information on casualties right now.

"We are trying our best to mobilise resources for rescue/relief ops. The incident took place at 5.50 pm today. Five coaches of the train have derailed. There could be injuries in this accident," Saxena said.

According to latest reports, first National Disaster Response Force team with 44 rescuers and two search dogs is about to reach the derailment site in Muzaffarnagar's Khatauli.

Meanwhile, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath tweeted, 'Sad incident, injured passengers will be given complete treatment. Directions issued for all possible assistance.' -- ANI

Photograph: ANI
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