Odisha train accident: ‘Heartbroken’ Joe Biden condoles the tragic train mishap in Balasore
2 min read 04 Jun 2023, 06:13 AM ISTUS President Joe Biden has expressed his condolences over the tragedy that has killed over 280 people. The Railways Ministry is working to restore the tracks at the site of the train accident in Odisha's Balasore.
PremiumUS President Joe Biden has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the tragic news of triple train crash in Odisha. He said that he is heartbroken by news that has killed over 280 people.
The crash in Odisha's Balasore district involving three trains is one of the worst rail accidents in India in nearly three decades. At least 288 people are dead and over 1,100 injured.
In a statement, "(First Lady Dr) Jill (Biden) and I are heartbroken by the tragic news of the deadly train crash in India. Our prayers go out to those who have lost loved ones and the many who suffered injuries in this terrible incident," Biden said in a statement.
Also Read: Odisha train accident: LIC simplifies claim process for Coromandel Express tragedy victims
"The United States and India share deep bonds rooted in the ties of family and culture that unite our two nations — and people all across America mourn alongside the people of India. As the recovery effort continues, we will hold the people of India in our thoughts," Biden said.
Meanwhile, the Railways Ministry has informed that the restoration work is ongoing at war footing in Odisha's Balasore. In a tweet, the Ministry of Railways said that the officials are closely monitoring the restoration process at the accident site.
Also Read: ‘Narcissistic propaganda minister’: Opposition fumes over Odisha train accident, some ‘ready to give suggestions’
"Restoration work is ongoing at Warfooting at the train accident site in Balasore, Odisha with 1000 Manpower working tirelessly. At present, more than 7 Poclain Machines, 2 Accident Relief Trains, and 3-4 Railway and Road Cranes have been deployed for early restoration. Officials are closely monitoring the restoration process at the accident site," read the post on the official Twitter handle of the Railways ministry.
Chief Public Relations Officer of South Eastern Railway Aditya Kumar Chowdhary informed ANI that traffic on the damaged tracks will be restored soon. "The whole team is engaged. We are all busy at work. We are trying to restore traffic as soon as possible," Chowdhary said.
The preliminary report on the tragedy said the three-way accident involved Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express, the Coromandel Express and goods train on three separate tracks at Bahanaga Bazar Station in Balasore district. As many as 17 coaches of these two passenger trains were derailed and severely damaged in the accident on Friday evening.
Earlier, on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached the accident spot, accompanied by Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
"It's a painful incident. We might not bring back the lives lost but we are with the families of the victims at this hour of grief. The government has taken very serious note of the incident and will leave no stone unturned in treating the injured passengers. An investigation has been ordered and those found guilty will not be spared," PM Modi said.
(With inputs from agencies)
"Exciting news! Mint is now on WhatsApp Channels 🚀 Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest financial insights!" Click here!
