Photo credit: Surya Reddy @jsuryareddy via X
Assam, October 17, 2024: In a distressing incident, at least eight coaches of the Agartala-Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express derailed at Dibalong station in Assam on Thursday afternoon. The accident occurred around 4 PM in the Lumding-Bardarpur Hill section of the Lumding division, but fortunately, no casualties or major injuries have been reported.
The Northeast Frontier Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) confirmed the details, stating, “Eight coaches, including the power car and the engine of the train, got derailed. However, no casualty or major injuries have been reported.”
The Agartala-Mumbai Lokmanya Tilak Express had departed from Agartala earlier that morning. The derailment, which took place at approximately 15:55 hrs, has prompted an immediate response from railway authorities. An Accident Relief Train and an Accident Relief Medical Train have been dispatched from Lumding, accompanied by senior officials to supervise rescue and restoration efforts. As a precautionary measure, the running of trains over the Lumding-Badarpur single line section has been suspended.
Helpline numbers have been established for concerned passengers and their families: 03674 263120 and 03674 263126.
Recent Train Accidents in 2024
This derailment adds to the list of train accidents that have occurred in India in 2024. Notably:
- August 9, 2024: Several coaches of the North-East Express derailed in Bihar, leading to multiple injuries but no fatalities.
- September 25, 2024: The Intercity Express experienced a partial derailment near Varanasi, resulting in minor injuries to several passengers.
- October 5, 2024: A train collision occurred in Maharashtra, leading to a significant number of injuries but thankfully no fatalities reported.
These incidents highlight ongoing concerns regarding railway safety in the region, prompting calls for enhanced infrastructure and safety measures.
