Two trains derail in MP, 25 reported injured, over 300 rescued so far

At least ten bogies of two passenger trains derailed and fell into a river near Harda in Madhya Pradesh late on Tuesday night.

According to reports, 25 people have been injured in the mishap and more than 300 people have been rescued so far.

Local reports said that seven coaches of the Mumbai-Varanasi Kamayani Express derailed around 11.30 p.m. while crossing the bridge over the River Machak, near the Kudawa Railway Station, which is around 25 kilometers from Harda.

Minutes later, three coaches and the engine of the Jabalpur-Mumbai Janata Express, which was travelling in the opposite direction, also derailed.

It is being reported that four people have died, but there is no official confirmation as yet.

Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu said in a tweet that he has ordered for the rushing emergency medical and other relief personnel to spot.

He also said that rescue and relief operations are being hampered by darkness and the swirling waters of the river, but added that all possible help is being provided for the affected.

Three special trains carrying doctors and rescue personnel have been dispatched to the spot. Relief teams could not be sent by road due to heavy water logging.

All private and government hospitals in Harda have been alerted and made ready to accommodate the victims.

At least 25 trains from Mumbai have been diverted as a result of the mishap.

Trains from Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh have been temporarily halted.

Trains may be diverted via Rajasthan-Kota route. Further details are awaited.