Odisha train accident: Condolences poured in from across the globe for the loss of lives of a huge number of people as India witnessed a tragic train accident on Friday night. More than 230 people were killed and over 900 injured in a massive head-on collision between three trains in Odisha’s Balasore district. In this major accident, three trains collided with each other in a gruesome sequence in Balasore district of Odisha. Bollywood celebrities including Salman KhanKirron Kher, Sonu Sood, Vivek Agnihotri and others expressed grief after learning about the incident.
Salman Khan tweeted, “Really saddened to hear about the accident, may God rest the souls of the deceased in peace, protect and give strength to the injured and families affected by this unfortunate accident.”
Actress-turned-politician Kirron Kher said: “Saddened to hear about the devastating train accident in Balasore, Odisha. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
Jr NTR tweeted, “Heartfelt condolences to the families and their loved ones affected by the tragic train accident. My thoughts are with each and every one affected by this devastating incident. May they find strength and support in this difficult time.”
Sonu Sood shared a tweet with a picture from the train accident site and added a broken heart emoticon.
Vivek Agnihotri, on the other hand, questioned who is responsible for the three trains colliding with each other, expressing grief. “Sad and extremely shameful. How can 3 trains be involved at this age and time? Who is accountable? Prayers for all the families. Om Shanti.”
Following the incident, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik visited the accident site and took stock of the situation in one of the deadliest accidents in the country. The cause of the train accident in Odisha will be known after the Commissioner of Railway Safety submits his report. Officials in Bhubaneswar said 200 ambulances, 50 buses and 45 mobile health units were working at the accident site, in addition to 1,200 personnel.
The Indian Army has also swung into action to assist in the rescue operation. Talking to the media, Colonel SK Dutta said that the army is continuously engaged in the rescue operation since last night and more soldiers are coming from Kolkata.