Kanpur train tragedy: NDRF team deployed for rescue operations

New Delhi: A team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was rushed to the accident site where the Ajmer-Sealdah Express derailed on Wednesday early morning in Uttar Pradesh. "A team of NDRF has been sent to the accident site in Kanpur's Rura from Varanasi to carry on relief and rescue operations," a senior official of the NDRF told IANS. At least 43 passengers were injured after 15 coaches of the express train derailed near Rura, 50 kms from Kanpur. Following the accident, routes of at least 21 trains were diverted, while three trains were cancelled. Ambulances were also been asked to come to the accident spot immediately. Those critically injured were rushed to Akbarpur, the district headquarter of Kanpur (rural). The others injured were rushed to the Community Health Centre in Rura. Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu also expressed concern on the matter, and said “Personally monitoring the situation in wake of unfortunate derailment of Sealdah-Ajmer express near Kanpur.” He also said that “We have directed senior officials to reach the site immediately. Immediate medical help is being provided to the injured. Thorough investigation will be carried out to ascertain the cause. Ex gratia will be paid to the injured. All passengers are being provided with necessary assistance to ensure least inconvenience.”