Hirakhand derailment: Prabhu assures stern action against defaulters

Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives post the Hirakhand Express derailment, Union Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu on Sunday assured that stern action would be initiated against the defaulters.

"Whatever help and support is needed, we are providing to them. Both the Centre and the state governments (Odisha and Andhra Pradesh) are working to provide relief measures. We will probe the matter and will take stern actions against the defaulters," said Prabhu after taking stock of the situation at the accident site.

Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Secretary Aditya Padhi said the dead bodies of the passengers have been removed from the accident site and added the bodies of the deceased is being identified so that they can be handed over to the family members.

"The cause of the accident would be inquired into, but a Commission of Inquiry has been set-up by the Indian Railways. We are taking all possible steps to see that the injured are fully recovered," he said.

Meanwhile, the death toll in the horrific incident, which took place at around 11 p.m. yesterday near Kuneru station, has climbed to 39.

The station is 25 kilometres away from Rayagada station in Odisha.

The Ministry of Railways has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. two lakh each for next of kin of those killed in the train accident. It has also announced Rs. 50,000 those seriously injured and Rs. 25,000 for minor injuries.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has also announced an additional ex-gratia of Rs. five lakh compensation under Chandranna Bima.

The Indian Railway has issued the following helpline numbers - Rayagada: 06856-223400, 06856-223500, 09439741181, 09439741071 and 07681878777. The helpline numbers at Vizianagaram are 08922-221202 and 08922-221206.