'Mild Explosion Before Derailment': Dibrugarh Express Passenger's Big Claim After At Least 8 Coaches Derail In UP

Three people were killed and around 30 others have been injured after Dibrugarh Express train derailed in Gonda, UP.

Gonda Train Derailment: A passenger who was onboard the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express train that derailed today in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda district, claimed that there was a "mild explosion" before the train derailed.

Three people were killed and around 30 others have been injured in the train incident today.

"I had to go to Hajipur... There was a mild explosion (before the incident) and after that a strong jolt was felt and our coach derailed. We were coming from Chandigarh..." he claimed.

A similar claim was made by the driver of the train who said that he heard a "loud explosion" right before the coaches of the train derailed on Thursday.

He also said that he had to apply emergency brakes after hearing the explosion, News 18 reported citing government sources.

The train was enroute to Dibrugarh and derailed at 2:37 pm between Motiganj and Jhilahi railway stations.

The Railways have announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakhs to the family of the deceased, Rs 2.5 lakhs for those who have been grievously injured and Rs 50,000 to those who suffered minor injuries. Apart from the CRS enquiry, a high-level enquiry has been ordered.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath directed officials to reach the spot immediately and expedite the relief work. He has given instructions for proper treatment of the injured, a statement from the Chief Minister's office said.

A help desk was also set up at the Chandigarh railway station.