6 coaches of Utkal Express derails in UP, 20 injured

At lest 20 people were injured after six coaches of the Utkal Express derailed near Khatauli in Uttar Pradesh, officials said.

According to railway officials, the incident occurred around 5.46 p.m. in Khatauli, in Muzaffarnagar district.

The train was headed from Puri in Odisha to Haridwar in Uttarakhand.

Northern Railways spokesperson Neeraj Sharma told IANS, "Six coaches of the train derailed in which over 20 passengers have been injured."

He said the railways has rushed medical vans to the site and rescue operations are underway.

Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu said he was personally monitoring the situation and a probe has been ordered.

"I am personally monitoring situation. Have instructed senior officers to reach site immediately and ensure speedy rescue and relief operations," Prabhu said in series of tweets.

"Have ordered an inquiry into the unfortunate accident to ascertain the cause. Strict action will be taken against any lapse," he said.

The Minister said that medical vans have been rushed to the site. All efforts are being taken to ensure speedy relief and rescue operations, he said.

"I have instructed Chairman Railway Board, Member Traffic to oversee rescue and relief operations," he said, adding that he has also instructed the General Manager, other senior officials to ensure all possible help to the people.

The Minister said that he was in close touch with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, state government officials, district administration to coordinate rescue and relief operations

--IANS

aks/rn