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Six coaches of the Bundelkhand Express (train No. 1108) derailed around 9 a.m. today at Datia, 73 kms. from Gwalior. The train was running from Varanasi to Gwalior. Of the six coaches three coaches alongwith the engine have capsized. According to the information received from the site of accident, 13 persons are reported dead and 35 injured. Out of 35 injured, three were shifted to Gwalior one to Jhansi and rest in Civil Hospital Datia. Senior officials along with a team of doctors from Jhansi and Agra rushed to the site soon after the accident.
The Minister of Railways Shri Lalu Prasad, who is in Patna, is constantly monitoring the relief and rescue efforts. The Railway Minister has announced compensation of Rs. 5 lakh including ex-gratia to the next of kin of dead. An enquiry will be conducted by the Commissioner of Railway Safety.
The Minister of State for Railways Shri Naranbhai J. Rathwa, Chairman, Railway Board Shri J.P. Batra alongwith senior officials of the Railways are rushing to the accident site. Stranded passengers in Datia have been cleared by buses to Gwalior.
The Railways have set up special helplines at Jhansi, Gwalior Datia and Allahabad. The helpline Nos. are –
Jhansi - 05197-2440441 / 05197-2449251
Gwalior – 0751-237100 / 0751-237884
Datia – 07522-237330
Allahabad – 0532-1072 (Emergency)
Varanasi – 0542-2509805 / 0542 - 2505896
EK/HK/CK-165/05
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