Andhra Train Accident: Vishakhapatnam-Bhubaneswar Up and Down Lines Restored, Says Railways

two passenger trains collide in Vizianagaram district in the southern Andhra Pradesh state, India, October 30, 2023. REUTERS / (REUTERS) ; image credit – REUTERS

In a tragic incident that sent shockwaves through the nation, two passenger trains collided in Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh on a fateful Sunday, resulting in the loss of 14 lives. The aftermath of this heart-wrenching event has been a testament to the resilience and dedication of the Indian Railways, as they worked tirelessly to restore the vital Vishakhapatnam-Bhubaneswar railway lines.

Restoration of the Railway Lines

The East Coast Railway, the lifeline of this region, played a pivotal role in getting the disrupted rail network back on track. The commitment and efficiency of the railway authorities were on full display as they worked relentlessly to restore normalcy.

Up Line Restoration: The restoration process began promptly, with the Up line being declared fit for operation at 1.35 pm (IST) on the very same day of the tragic incident. This swift action demonstrated the railway’s commitment to minimizing disruptions and ensuring the smooth flow of traffic.

Down Line Restoration: The Down line, equally crucial for uninterrupted train services, was restored at 1.55 pm (IST). This quick recovery was a testament to the dedication of the railway workers and their ability to overcome adversity.

The first goods train made its way along the Down line at 2.23 pm (IST), signifying a crucial milestone in getting the rail network back in action. This step was pivotal in restoring the flow of essential goods and materials, which is vital to the region’s economy.

18463 Bhubaneswar-Bangalore Prashanti Exp: The 18463 Bhubaneswar-Bangalore Prashanti Express was one of the first passenger trains to pass through the UP line. It departed from Alamanda Station at 2.36 pm, marking a significant moment in the resumption of passenger train services.

The Impact of the Tragic Incident

The collision of two passenger trains in Vizianagaram district sent shockwaves across the country and had a profound impact on the region. The tragic incident resulted in the loss of 14 lives and left more than 50 people injured. Biswajit Sahoo, the Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of the East Coast Railway, provided an update on the situation.

He stated, “The death toll stands at 14, while more than 50 people are injured. Among the 50 injured, 29 are admitted to hospitals while others have been discharged.” The immediate response and medical care provided to the injured passengers were crucial in mitigating the impact of the accident.

Train Collision Details

The collision occurred between Alamanda and Kantakapalle Stations in the Vizianagaram-Kottavalasa Railway section of the Waltair Division of the East Coast Railway (ECoR), which is a part of the Howrah-Chennai Main Line. One of the trains involved in the collision was operating from Vizianagaram to Raigada, Odisha, while the other was en route from Vishakapatnam to Palasa, Andhra Pradesh.

The Divisional Railway Manager informed us that it was a rear-end collision between the two passenger trains. This incident highlighted the critical importance of safety measures and protocols in ensuring the well-being of passengers and the smooth operation of the railway network.

Disruptions and Rescheduling

In the wake of the tragic collision, Indian Railways had to make some challenging decisions to manage the situation effectively. A total of 33 trains had to be canceled to facilitate the restoration and repair work of the affected railway lines. Additionally, six other trains had to be rescheduled to accommodate the necessary repairs and inspections.

These disruptions had a considerable impact on the daily lives of passengers and the economy of the region. However, the priority remained the safety of the passengers and the swift restoration of normal train services.

In Conclusion

The collision of two passenger trains in Andhra Pradesh’s Vizianagaram district was a tragic event that deeply affected the region. However, the response of the Indian Railways was nothing short of commendable. The quick and efficient restoration of the Vishakhapatnam-Bhubaneswar railway lines showcased the dedication of the railway authorities and their commitment to minimizing disruptions.

As we remember the lives lost in this unfortunate incident, we also acknowledge the resilience of the Indian Railways in overcoming adversity. Their prompt action and unwavering commitment to passenger safety and the restoration of normal train services have been remarkable.