A helpline was quickly set up at the Chandigarh station following the mishap involving the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express in Uttar Pradesh on July 18, 2024, by railway officials.
Uncertain Fate of Passengers
While the exact number of passengers boarding from Chandigarh is unknown, estimates suggest around 1,220 departed from the station alone. This caused significant anxiety for families with loved ones onboard.
Helpdesk Provides Information and Support
Acknowledging the distress, railway officials set up the helpdesk to answer questions and offer support. The helpdesk provided the following contact numbers for families to check on their loved ones:
Chandigarh Station Helpline: 0172-2639785
Ambala Control Office Helpline: 0171-2610653
The helpdesk staff assured families they would gather information from North Eastern Railway officials and relay it back to them. The helpdesk remained operational throughout the night and continued to serve families on July 19th.
Reports of Passengers Safe and Evacuated
Fortunately, reports emerged from passengers indicating the majority of them were unharmed and had disembarked at various locations.
These positive reports provided some comfort for families during a stressful time. The prompt action by railway officials in setting up the helpdesk and their efforts to gather information demonstrate their commitment to passenger well-being in the aftermath of the incident.
Death Toll Rises in Derailment
However, news reports also revealed a rise in the death toll from the derailment. Officials reported 4 fatalities and 32 injuries.
- The deceased include Rahul (38), Saroj Kumar Singh (31), and two unidentified passengers.
- Two critically injured passengers are undergoing treatment at a Lucknow trauma center.
Investigation and Restoration Efforts Underway
A high-level investigation is underway to determine the cause of the derailment. Railway teams are working diligently to restore traffic flow:
- On Thursday night, a special train with 600 people departed for Assam.
- Train authorities are repairing rails and removing wrecked coaches with the use of cranes, JCBs, and gas cutters.
- Reinstalling electrical poles and cables that were harmed in the disaster is also ongoing
In addition to announcing increased humanitarian compensation for the families of the passengers who died and were injured, the Ministry of Railways has authorized a high-level investigation.
