Lucknow: At least 10 people were killed and more than 30 others injured when six coaches of Puri-Haridwar-Kalinga Utkal Express derailed in Khatauli in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar district on Saturday, a top official said.
Confirming the toll, ADG Law and Order Anand Kumar said that 10 people were killed and 30-40 others were injured.
He also said that 30 ambulances have reached the spot to help the injured.
Indian Railways spokesman Anil Saxena said resources were being mobilised for the rescue and relief operations.
The injured were shifted to a local hospital.
Meanwhile, officials of the local administration have reached the site to coordinate rescue and relief works.
Two teams of the National Disaster Response Forces (NDRF), comprising 45 personnel each, were also mobilized for the purpose.
Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 3.5 lakh for the next of kin of those killed, Rs 50,000 for the seriously injured and Rs 25,000 for people with minor injuries.
The minister has instructed the senior officers to reach the site and ensure speedy rescue and relief works.
He also asked the chairman of the Railway Board to oversee the operations.
“All efforts are being taken to ensure speedy relief and rescue operations,” ANI quoted the railway minister as saying.
The cause of the derailment was not immediately known.
Neeraj Sharma, an official of the Northern Railways, said that alternative vehicles were being arranged for the stranded passengers.
The ill-fated train was on its way to Haridwar from Puri in Odisha when the derailment happened.
