Five killed, over 50 injured in three separate train accidents

LUCKNOW - At least five people were killed and more than 50 injured in three separate train accidents that took place on Saturday due to intense foggy conditions.

Gorakhdham Express and Prayagraj Express collided near the Panki railway station in Kanpur around 8.30am.

“The accident occurred around 8.30 am. Prayagraj Express was standing and the Gorakhdham hit it from the back. Last two coaches of Prayagraj are completely damaged. At present there are five reported casualties,” said Anil Sagar, District Magistrate, Kanpur.

“And about 45-50 people are injured. All the private hospitals and medical colleges are alerted. Injured have been admitted to both the hospitals and at present treatments is going on,” he added.

As per eyewitnesses, the death toll could be more. Operations are on to rescue the trapped passengers.

Two passenger trains - the Lichchavi Express and Magadh Express - also collided near Sarai Bhupat railway station in Etawah district of the state. About12 people were injured in this accident.

Officials have said that dense fog is the most possible reason behind both the accidents but nothing can be said until an inquiry is held.

The third accident took place near Vishwanathganj Railway Station, when Faizabad bound Saryu Express collided with a tractor trolley at an unmanned level crossing.

The engine of the train was partly damaged in the accident. It was a minor accident leaving two persons injured.

However, no casualty has been reported so far in this accident.

The Railway Government has announced a compensation for all those killed and injured in the mishap. An ex-gratia of five lakhs will be given to the families of the dead, one lakh will be given to those seriously injured and Rs 10,000 will be given to all those who received minor injuries. (ANI)