At Least 11 Killed in India Train Crash as Rescuers Recover Bodies

In a devastating incident, at least 11 people were killed and dozens injured after a passenger train derailed in eastern India’s Odisha state early Monday morning. The accident, which occurred near Bahanaga in Balasore district, has reignited concerns about railway safety in India.

What Happened in the Odisha Train Crash?

Preliminary reports indicate that the Coromandel Express, traveling from Kolkata to Chennai, derailed around 7:20 AM after colliding with a stationary goods train. The impact caused multiple coaches to overturn, trapping passengers inside.

Rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities, are working to recover bodies and assist survivors. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced ₹5 lakh compensation for victims’ families, while Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is expected to visit the crash site.

Survivors Describe the Horror

Passengers who escaped the crash recounted terrifying moments:
– Ramesh Kumar, a 32-year-old businessman, said, “I woke up to a violent jolt—the coach was tilting sideways. People were screaming and bleeding.”
– Priya Menon narrowly survived by jumping from a broken window. “I saw bodies near the tracks… I don’t know how I made it out,” she said.

Railway Safety Under Fire

The crash has raised urgent questions about India’s rail infrastructure. Despite being one of the world’s largest rail networks, the system suffers from:
– Aging tracks & poor maintenance
– Delayed implementation of Kavach (anti-collision system)
– Human & signaling errors

A 2022 CAG report had already flagged safety lapses, including slow track inspections. Officials are now investigating if signal failure or human error caused the Balasore tragedy.

Political and Public Outrage

Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, called the crash a “man-made disaster,” criticizing the government for neglecting rail safety. Meanwhile, PM Modi expressed condolences, saying, “Distressed by the accident… May the injured recover soon.”

Public anger is growing, with social media trends like #RailSafetyNow demanding urgent reforms.

What Happens Next?

• Free medical treatment announced for the injured.
• Special trains arranged for stranded passengers.
• Focus shifts to compensation, rehabilitation, and accountability.

This tragedy underscores the need for urgent rail safety upgrades in India. As rescue efforts continue, the nation mourns the lives lost.

Stay updated with the latest developments on this breaking story.