Bhubaneswar: The states government has assigned Odisha Fire Services DG Sudhanshu Sarangi to supervise rescue operations in the train accident in Balasore even as Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Satyabrata Sahu along with a team of officials has rushed to the spot.
The Howrah-Chennai Superfast Coromandel Express collided with a stationary goods train at Panapana near Bahanaga station in Balsore district at around 7.15 pm.
Several compartments have derailed and turned turtle on the impact of the collision. At least 5 compartments have been severely damaged and around 400 passengers travelling in those compartments affected.
The casualty in the mishap has not been ascertained but the sources said the number of passengers injured in the incident may cross 100. The exact figure would be known after the rescue operation. But sources said many passengers have remained under the mangled compartments.
Rescue operation has been going on a war footing by the Railways’ security personnel, police and Fire Brigade. The local people have also lent a helping hand in the rescue operation.
The government has opened an emergency control room at Balasore and another control room in SRC office. People can contact 91 6782 262 286 at Balasore control room or 0674-2534177 at SRC office for information regarding the passengers.
Similarly, the helpline number 033-26382217 has been opened at Howrah, 8972073925 and 9332392339 at Kharagpur, 8249591559 and 7978418322 at Balasore and 9903370746 at Shalimar.
