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Bengaluru train derailment leaves 9 dead, 19 injured

The Bengaluru City-Ernakulam Intercity Express derailment on Friday left 9 people dead and severely injured 19 others. The nine bogies of the train that left Bangalore City in the morning derailed between Anekal Road and Hosur on Bangalore City - Salem Section. Five men, three women and a 9 year-old are among those killed in the mishap.

Railway minister Suresh Prabhu, who rushed to the train accident site in Karnataka to monitor relief and rescue measures, has ordered an inquiry “to fix responsibility” and promised all help to the affected. Expressing grief over the mishap, the minister announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased. While Rs 50,000 would be given to those severely injured, Rs 20,000 would be given to those who suffered simple injuries. “I am on way to Bangalore to visit accident site to help all stranded. All possible help will be rendered to families affected. Ordered enquiry to fix responsibility and for corrective action to prevent such unfortunate accidents. Monitoring action regularly,” Prabhu tweeted before leaving for the accident site.

He added in another tweet, “Met the injured, asked Doctors to provide best possible medical care to ensure their speedy recovery. We will take action on knowing cause.”

The Railways has cancelled five trains going to Ernakulam, Hosur and Dharmapuri and 11 long-distance trains have been diverted, till the tracks near the accident site are cleared. The Bengaluru Urban Deputy Commissioner said that the bodies will be shifted to Victoria Hospital and handed over to the families after completion of necessary formalities.

Union law minister DV Sadananda Gowda, who was asked by Prabhu to rush to the accident site, said nine coaches had derailed. The injured had been taken to hospitals in Anekal and Bengaluru, he said. Chairman Railway Board AK Mittal and Director General Health Services MK Budhalkoti also rushed to the site to ensure speedy operation. An inquiry into the mishap will be conducted by Commissioner Railway Safety SK Mittal.
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