Bangalore-Ernakulam express accident: Probe ordered, did boulder derail train?

Expressing grief over the mishap, Mr. Prabhu who visited the spot ordered an inquiry into the mishap to fix the responsibility and assured assistance to the victims of the accident. “The inquiry would be conducted by the Commissioner for Railway Safety A. K. Mittal. The team is expected to submit the report within two to three weeks of time, based on the prima facie and circumstantial evidences. The culprit will be subjected to the harshest of harsh punishment,” he said.

Although based on the initial report it appears that the mishap was due to a huge boulder on the track the real cause will be known through an inquiry, he said and announced a compensation of Rs two lakhs for the family members of the deceased. While Rs 50,000 would be given to those grievously injured and Rs 20,000 would be extended to those who suffered minor injuries. Mr. Prabhu has rushed to the site along with Chairman of the Railway Board.

“There is a need to strengthen the railway safety and an additional resources would be earmarked in the railway budget. About there are about 11,000 unmanned railway tracks which needs immediate attention,” Prabhu said.

Chairman Railway Board A.K Mittal and Director General Health Services M. K. Budhalkoti were at the site to ensure speedy rescue operation.

Before reaching the spot, Mr. Prabhu had tweeted, “it's an unfortunate rail accident in Karnataka, directed all senior officers to rush with full help.” and another tweet was, "I am on way to Bengaluru to visit accident site to help all stranded. All possible help will be rendered to families affected. Ordered an enquiry to fix responsibility and for corrective action to prevent such unfortunate accidents. Monitoring action regularly.”