Amritsar accident: Kejriwal asks AAP volunteers to help authorities in relief work

AAP national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Friday asked Aam Aadmi Party volunteers to help authorities in Punjab in carrying out relief work after a tragic train accident in Amritsar in which at least 50 people have died.

Several people were mowed down by a passing train when they were standing across railway tracks in Amritsar to watch burning of a Ravana effigy as part of Dussehra celebrations.

"Extremely sad news coming about a major train accident near Amritsar I appeal to all our volunteers in the area to help authorities in the relief work and provide whatever help we can in this moment of crisis," Kejriwal tweeted.

Officials said at least 50 bodies have been found and many injured have been admitted to a government hospital. They said the final toll may rise.

Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri tweeted,"Absolutely devastated to hear about the tragic train accident in Amritsar. May God grant strength to those who lost a loved one & speedy recovery to the injured.