Railways orders probe and ex-gratia for victims

Railways on Sunday ordered an inquiry into derailment of a passenger train on Konkan route in Raigad district of Maharashtra and announced an ex-gratia of Rs two lakh for those killed in the accident.

Railway Board chairman Arunendra Kumar said commissioner, Railway Safety, Chetan Bakshi will conduct the inquiry and has rushed to the site.

Railway minister Mallikarjun Kharge announced an ex-gratia of Rs two lakh for those killed in the accident, Rs 50 thousand for the grievously hurt and Rs 10,000 for passengers who suffered minor injuries.

Eighteen passengers were killed and more than 145 injured after an engine and four coaches of the Diva-Sawantwadi Road Passenger train derailed on Sunday. The chairman along with adviser, health, BB Agarawal are also visiting the accident site. Railways has also started two helpline — Thane — 022-25334840 and Panwel — 022-27468833.