Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday directed Revenue and Disaster Management Minister to visit the accident site in Andhra Pradesh’s Vizianagaram district, which saw 13 casualties after Visakhapatnam-Rayagada Passenger Special train hit Visakhapatnam-Palasa passenger from the rear last evening.
“The CM today directed Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Sudam Marandi to visit yesterday’s train accident site in Andra Pradesh and also meet the injured at hospital. Additional Special Relief Commissioner is also accompanying the minister,” a CMO release said.
Over 50 passengers are being treated for injuries.
While expressing grief over the accident, Naveen had last night directed the Special Relief Commissioner and collectors of Koraput and Rayagada to extend immediate help in rescue and relief operations.
Briefing the media earlier in the day, East Coast Railway (ECoR) CPRO Abhijit Sahu said that the rescue operation was completed last night and the focus is currently on track restoration.
“ECoR General Manager Manoj Sharma is monitoring the restoration work at the accident site along with Principal Heads of Departments of ECoR and Divisional Railway Manager Waltair. Eight poclain machines, one 140 tonnes crane and 800 to 900 manpower are engaged in the restoration work,” an ECoR release said.
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The tracks are expected to be cleared by 4 pm.
