New Delhi: Hours after the Kaifiyat Express collided with a dumpster in Uttar Pradesh, injuring 100 people, Union railways minister Suresh Prabhu, “pained by the unfortunate accidents and loss of precious lives”, offered to resign from his post taking “moral responsibility”.
While Prime Minister Narendra Modi is yet to take a call, Railway Board chairman AK Mittal has been replaced by Air India chairman and managing director Ashwani Lohani.
Wednesday’s accident came five days after the Utkal Express derailment in which over 23 people died and scores were injured. In a series of tweets, Mr Prabhu wrote, “In less than three years as minister, I have devoted my blood and sweat for the betterment of the Railways… tried to overcome decades of neglect through systemic reforms in all areas… New India envisioned by PM deserves a Railways which is efficient and modern. I am extremely pained by the unfortunate accidents... It has caused me deep anguish. I met the Prime Minister, taking full moral responsibility. Hon’ble PM has asked me to wait.”
