Chennai:
In a major accident, the Chennai Beach-Vellore local hit the rear of the Arakkonam-Katpadi passenger train. 15 people are feared killed and 17 are critically injured.
Inspector General (North Zone) Satyendra Babu told NDTV over 80 injured passengers have been rushed to hospital and seven bodies have been recovered so far. More than 100 police officials and firemen are involved in the rescue efforts. Navy personnel and two teams of the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) are also at the site.
Eyewitnesses say that the accident occurred at 9:30 pm, adding that three bogies have been derailed. Many passengers are trapped under the debris. Heavy rain and darkness are hampering rescue work.
The accident happened between Arakkonam and Chiteri, about 80 kilometres from Chennai. Outbound train services from Chennai disrupted due to the collision.
Chennai Helpline numbers: 044 25357398, 044- 25347771, 09244919572