2520 Agartala – Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express Accident – In a significant rail mishap in Assam, eight coaches of the Lokmanya Tilak Express derailed near Dibalong Station on Thursday. The train, which had departed from Agartala and was bound for Mumbai, faced this unfortunate incident in the Lumding Division’s Lumding-Badarpur hill section. Fortunately, no casualties or severe injuries have been reported.
The accident occurred at around 3:55 PM, and according to officials from the Northeast Frontier Railway, eight coaches, including the engine and power car of the Lokmanya Tilak Express (train no. 12520), went off-track. Local authorities were quick to react, and railway officials, including a rescue and medical relief train, rushed to the spot to oversee rescue and recovery efforts.
Official Statements on Assam Railway Accident
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the situation, assuring the public that all passengers were safe. In his official statement, CM Sarma confirmed, “No passengers have been harmed. We are coordinating closely with railway officials to ensure relief operations are carried out swiftly. Rescue teams are already on-site.”
The Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of Northeast Frontier Railway also reiterated that there were no reports of major injuries. “The derailment took place near Dibalong Station in the Lumding Division. The coaches that derailed include the power car and several others, but we have ensured the safety of all passengers,” said the CPRO.
Relief and Restoration Efforts Underway
Immediately following the incident, senior railway officers and medical teams reached the accident site. Rescue operations began without delay, ensuring that passengers were evacuated safely and the site was secured for further investigations.
The relief and medical relief trains from Lumding have been deployed for assistance, and the situation is being closely monitored by senior officials. The railways have also set up helpline numbers (03674-263120, 03674-263126) for passengers and their families to inquire about the status of the train and affected passengers.
Rail Traffic Disruptions and Response
Due to this derailment, train services in the Lumding-Badarpur hill section may face temporary disruptions, with authorities advising passengers to remain patient as recovery and track restoration operations continue. Alternate arrangements for affected passengers are being explored by the railways, and an investigation into the cause of the derailment is expected to begin soon.
No Casualties, but Growing Concerns
While the absence of casualties in the Assam Train accident today comes as a relief, the incident highlights the need for heightened safety measures in India’s railway infrastructure. Authorities are working to identify the cause of the derailment and will take steps to prevent future occurrences.
