At least 20 coaches of the Sabarmati Express passenger train derailed early this morning between Kanpur and Bhimsen station in Uttar Pradesh. The incident occurred at approximately 2:30 am on Saturday.
According to a Railway Board official, no injuries have been reported so far, providing some relief amid this unfortunate event. The loco pilot has indicated that a boulder struck the cattle guard—the front portion of the engine—causing significant damage and bending it, leading to the derailment.
In the aftermath of the derailment, the Railways has taken swift action. Seven trains have been canceled, and three others have been diverted to manage the situation. An 8-coach MEMU train was dispatched from Kanpur at 5:21 am to the accident site to bring the stranded passengers back to Kanpur, where further arrangements are being made to help them reach their respective destinations. Buses have also been sent to the site to assist with the evacuation of passengers.
Deepak Kumar, the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of the Jhansi division, confirmed that there are no casualties or injuries. The passengers were transported back to Kanpur via bus and train, and another train has been prepared in Kanpur to continue the passengers’ journey to their intended destinations.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has reacted to the incident, noting that “sharp hit marks are observed” on the track, suggesting a deliberate act of sabotage. The engine of the Sabarmati Express, traveling from Varanasi to Ahmedabad, reportedly struck an object placed on the tracks, leading to the derailment. The minister has assured that the evidence is being protected, and the Intelligence Bureau (IB) along with the Uttar Pradesh Police are actively investigating the situation. Fortunately, no injuries to passengers or staff have been reported, and arrangements have been made for the passengers to continue their journey.
Indian Railways has also issued emergency helpline numbers to assist those affected by this incident.
- Prayagraj: 0532-2408128, 0532-2407353,
- Kanpur: 0512-2323018, 0512-2323015,
- Mirzapur: 054422200097, Etawah: 7525001249,
- Tundla: 7392959702,
- Ahmedabad: 07922113977,
- Banaras City: 8303994411,
- Gorakhpur: 0551-2208088.
Besides, the following helpline numbers for Jhansi Rail Division have been released -:
- Virangana Lakshmibai Jhansi Jn) -0510-2440787 and 0510-2440790.
- Orai -05162-252206,
- Banda-05192-227543,
- Lalitpur Jn – 07897992404
Stay tuned for further updates as more details become available.