Indore-Patna Express derails in train accident near Kanpur

In the worst rail accident in recent years, over 120 passengers were killed and more than 200 injured, nearly half of them grievously, when 14 coaches of the Indore-Patna Express derailed in Kanpur early on Sunday. The tragedy could have been caused due to a rail fracture, according to sources in the Railways.

Four sleeper coaches of the train — S1, S2, S3, S4 — were badly damaged in the accident.

“Over 150 injured people have been rushed to nearby hospitals in the area. All hospitals have been asked to be alert. More than 30 ambulances have been pressed into service,” Commissioner (Kanpur Zone) Iftikharuddin said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives in the train tragedy. “Anguished beyond words on the loss of lives due to the derailing of the Patna-Indore express. My thoughts are with the bereaved families,” he said in a tweet.

Anguished beyond words on the loss of lives due to the derailing of the Patna-Indore express. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 20, 2016