Death toll in Odisha train accident rises to 261

A derailment of the Coromandel Express near Balasore, Odisha, on Friday evening, is one of the deadliest rail accidents in India in recent years.

The death toll has reached 261 and over 900 have been injured in the accident.

The derailment of 10 to 12 coaches of the Shalimar-Chennai Coromandel Express caused them to fall onto the opposite track. Subsequently, the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express collided with the derailed coaches, leading to the derailment of three to four of its own coaches. The crash also involved a goods train, adding to the tragedy.

The exact cause of the derailment is yet to be determined, and a thorough investigation is underway.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the recurring train accidents that have plagued India. Over the years, the country has witnessed several deadly rail mishaps.