Here are some of the deadliest train accidents in India

The train crash in Odisha’s Balasore district has shocked the nation, claiming the unfortunate distinction of being one of the deadliest train accidents in the history of Indian Railways. On Friday evening, tragedy struck when 17 coaches of the Coromandel Express and SMVT-Howrah Super Fast Express derailed, resulting in a devastating loss of life. The death toll has now risen to 278, with approximately 1168 people reported injured. The incident has brought immense sadness to the nation, and efforts are focused on providing support to the victims and their families during this difficult time.

India has unfortunately witnessed several deadly train accidents over the years. Here are some of the deadliest train accidents in India:

June 1981: In Bihar state, during a cyclone, seven out of the nine coaches of an overcrowded train fell into a river, resulting in the deaths of nearly 800 people.

August 1995: Approximately 350 people were killed when two trains collided 200km (125 miles) from Delhi.

August 1999: A collision between two trains near Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) claimed the lives of at least 285 people.

October 2005: A train derailed in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh, leading to the deaths of 77 people.

November 2016: The Indore-Patna Express train derailed near Kanpur, resulting in the deaths of nearly 150 people, with an equal number of individuals sustaining injuries.

In response to these accidents, nearby residents and surviving passengers often played crucial roles in initiating rescue operations. Additionally, local bus companies have assisted in transporting injured passengers. It is worth noting that while India boasts one of the world’s largest train networks, significant improvements are required to enhance railway infrastructure and ensure the safety of passengers.