Railways Minister orders probe into Nanded-Bangalore Express fire incident

Railways Minister M Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday condoled the deaths of people, who died after fire broke out in an air conditioned bogie of the Nanded-Bangalore Express saying that an inquiry has been instituted to probe the incident.

"As per our departmental report the reason seems to be a short circuit. But I am not satisfied with this. I have instituted an inquiry which will be headed by the chairman of the Railway Board," said Kharge after being asked about the reason for the incident.

"They will enquire into the matter in detail and find out what the deficiencies are, and who is responsible for the incident. Secondly, the reason for such incidents will also be investigated," he added.

"I extend my deep condolences to the families, who have lost their loved ones. I have announced 5 lakh rupees to each family. Injured persons will also get compensation," he said.

At least 23 people were killed and nine others injured after a fire broke out in an air conditioned bogie of the Nanded-Bangalore Express in Andhra Pradesh's Anantapur District early today.

The injured have reportedly been admitted to the Dharmavaram Hospital in the district.

Media reports said the fire broke out in the second air conditioned bogie of the train number 16594 that was going from Bangalore to Nanded. There were at least 64 passengers in the bogie.

The train had left Bangalore at 10:45 p.m. on Friday night. The fire broke out when the train was near the Prasanthi Nilayam ashram in Anantapur District around 3 a.m.

A few people reportedly jumped out of the train on noticing the fire.

A shocked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has directed the Railways and the Andhra Pradesh Government to extend all possible help to the victims.