Loud explosion before derailment: Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express' Loco pilot claims possible sabotage

A dramatic incident unfolded on Thursday evening as multiple coaches of the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express derailed in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda. Tribhuvan, one of the loco pilots, reported hearing a loud explosion just before the derailment, raising concerns about possible sabotage.

Casualties and Injuries

So far, four deaths have been confirmed, and 20 people have sustained injuries. The Railways is investigating the possibility of sabotage and has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident.

Incident Details

The derailment occurred a few kilometers before the Jhulahi railway station. Immediate response efforts included dispatching a 40-member medical team and 15 ambulances to the site, with additional teams on their way. Senior railway and local administration officials are on-site to manage rescue operations, about 150 km from Lucknow.

Compensation Announced

The government has announced compensation for the victims:

₹10 lakh for families of the deceased

₹2.5 lakh for those with serious injuries

₹50,000 for those with minor injuries

Official Responses

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have been briefed on the situation. Yogi Adityanath's office has instructed officials to ensure the injured receive proper medical care promptly.

The Railways is continuing to examine all aspects of the incident to determine the cause and ensure the safety of passengers in the future.