Amritsar accident: PM Modi directs officials to provide immediate assistance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed grief over the deaths of over 50 people in a train accident in Punjab's Amritsar city and said that he has asked officials to provide immediate assistance.

"Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching. My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required," Prime Minister Modi tweeted.

The unfortunate incident took place when people were watching Dussehra celebrations near a train track in Choura Bazar. Several people also got injured in the incident and have been rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi also took cognizance of the incident and expressed condolences to the families of those who have died. He tweeted, "The train accident in Punjab in which over 50 people have died is shocking. I urge the state government and Congress workers to provide immediate relief at the accident site. My condolences to the families of those who have died. I pray that the injured make a speedy recovery."

Earlier, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh directed senior officials to rush to the accident site. The Chief Minister will fly to Amritsar tomorrow to assess the situation.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh also tweeted, "Pained beyond words at the loss of precious lives due to a train tragedy during Dussehra festivities in Punjab. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased and prayers with the injured."

The police and local Railway officers are at the spot to take stock of the situation and carry out the rescue operation.