PM Narendra Modi condoles loss of lives in Andhra Pradesh train mishap

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today condoled the loss of lives, including that of Karnataka MLA Venkatesh Naik, in an accident involving Bangalore City-Nanded Express train in Andhra Pradesh.

"My thoughts are with the families of all those who lost their lives in the unfortunate accident of the Bangalore City-Nanded express," Modi tweeted.

"My condolences to the family of Karnataka MLA Shri Venkatesh Naik. He will be remembered for his service to society," he added.

Naik, a Congress MLA, was among six people killed when a granite-laden truck rammed into Bangalore-Nanded Express train after breaking the gate at a level crossing in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh in the wee hours today.

Four bogies of the Nanded-bound train derailed as the truck broke the closed boom gate at Madakasira after "overlooking all safety warnings" and hit a coach at around 2.20 AM, the Railways said.

The AC bogie was crushed and three sleeper coaches of the train derailed in the incident in Anantapur district.