BSP raises train accident issue in UP assembly

LUCKNOW: Alleging that the government did not act promptly after the tragic train accident in Bachrawan in Rai Bareili district today, BSP members rake up the issue in Uttar Pradesh assembly.

As soon as the House met, Leader of Opposition, Swami Prasad Maurya (BSP) raised the issue and informed the House about the tragic train accident.

"When I came to know about the incident, I called up Principal Secretary (Home) informing him that both the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police were not present on the spot. I got a reply that both the officers are on the leave. This shows seriousness of the government on the serious matter," Maurya said.

He said that he also informed the Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav about it.

Replying to him, Food and Civil Supplies Minister, Raghuraj Pratap Singh alias Raja Bhaiya said that CM has directed health and other departments to provide immediate relief to the injured.

Ambulances have been rushed from nearby districts, including from Lucknow, he said adding that the government's decision was prompt.

At least 15 persons were killed and around 150 others injured when the engine and two coaches of the Dehradun-Varanasi Janta Express derailed near Bachrawan Railway Station in the Rae Bareili district today.

"There could be more casualties in the mishap," Divisional Commissioner, Lucknow, Mahesh Gupta told PTI.

The accident occurred around 9.30 AM near Bachhrawan Railway station, about 50 km from state capital, Lucknow.