In an unsettling development regarding the fatal train accident in Odisha, the Government Railway Police (GRP) suspect that approximately 40 passengers on the Coromandel Express lost their lives due to electrocution. Contrary to the norm, these victims displayed no visible injuries. Authorities believe that when the dreadful accident occurred, live overhead wires broke free and entangled with several coaches, leading to the electrocution of passengers trapped within.
Death Toll Rises in the Heartbreaking Accident
Regrettably, the overall death toll from Tuesday’s triple train collision rose to 278, following the deaths of three more passengers who were battling their injuries in hospital. The calamitous event entailed the Shalimar-Chennai Coromandel Express, the SMVT Bengaluru–Howrah SF Express, and a goods train. The chain of events was set in motion when the Coromandel Express went off the tracks close to the Bahanaga railway station situated in the Balasore district of Odisha. Over 900 passengers were injured in this disastrous accident.
Eyewitness Account Paints a Grim Picture
Sub-inspector of Police, P Kumar Nayak, shared in his FIR that numerous passengers lost their lives due to a combination of injuries from the collision and electrocution from the low tension overhead line. The overhead wires, along with the electric masts, snapped as coaches toppled over during the horrific accident, potentially electrocuting passengers on board.
Compensation for the Affected: A Ray of Hope
In the aftermath of the tragedy, a total of 531 victims have received compensation, tallying up to approximately Rs 15.6 crores. Aditya Kumar Chaudhary, CPRO, South Eastern Railway, appealed to those affected to contact their helpdesks for assistance. Following the incident, the Indian Railways promptly announced compensation packages. The family of each deceased will receive Rs 10 lakh, the grievously injured will get Rs 2 lakh, and those with minor injuries will be given Rs 50,000.In a commendable step, the Railways confirmed that even ticketless passengers involved in the accident would be entitled to compensation. This move surely brings a glimmer of hope amidst this dark chapter.
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