New Delhi (Reuters): At least 27 people were killed and around 100 injured after an express train derailed in south-east India Saturday night in the latest disaster to hit the vast and accident-prone rail networks, police said
The express train from Jagdalpur to Bhubaneswar derailed near Kuneri station, in the state of Andhra Pradesh, around 30 km (18 miles) outside the town of Raigarh.
Eight coaches and the engine of the Jagdalpur-Bhubaneswar express derailed at 11:00 pm (1730 GMT) near Kuneru railway station in Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh state.
Local Superintendent of Police L.K.V. Ranga Rao said, "Nine bogies were derailed of which three have turned and fallen off the track. Most of the casualties and deaths are from the three sleeper-class compartments."
SP further added that no evidence of sabotage has been detected, saying that the cause of the derailment appeared to be a technical fault. Rescue operations were under way and coaches that had not derailed had been towed from the scene.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said on Twitter, offering his condolences to the families of the victims, "Anguished to learn about the train accident near Vizianagaram. We are investigating the reason for accident."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also tweeted that the tragedy was "saddening" and said the railways ministry was working to ensure quick relief and rescue operations.
