Train Derails in Andhra Pradesh, Child Miraculously Survives
In a tragic incident in Andhra Pradesh, a train derailed, resulting in the unfortunate loss of lives and injuries to several passengers. However, amidst the chaos and devastation, there was a miraculous escape for a six-year-old child who fell from the upper berth but fortunately suffered no major injuries.
The incident occurred when the Visakhapatnam-Rayagada Passenger Special train collided with the Visakhapatnam-Palasa Passenger train, claiming the lives of 14 people and leaving 50 others injured. Dilip Kumar Patro, a resident of Odisha’s Rayagada district, was traveling back home with his wife, daughter, and three others when the accident took place between Alamanda and Kantakapalle in the Vizianagaram-Kottavalasa Railway Section.
Patro recalled the horrifying moment when the train abruptly jolted, causing his daughter to fall from the top berth. Amidst the screams and cries for help, he quickly realized the gravity of the situation. With immense gratitude to the Almighty, Patro’s wife expressed their fortune in surviving the mishap.
Taking swift action, Patro took hold of his daughter and belongings, instructing his wife and other family members to disembark from the tilted coach. Despite the fear and difficulty, they managed to safely exit the train. Patro witnessed the aftermath of the accident, seeing someone lying lifeless under a coach.
Although the situation was tragic, Patro pointed out that the number of passengers on the train was relatively low due to it being a Sunday, potentially preventing further loss of life if the coach had been crowded. Their survival was a result of the fortuitous circumstances.
As survivors arrived at the Rayagada railway station, having been transported by bus from the accident site, they expressed their gratitude for being alive. While no passengers from Odisha were among the casualties, some did sustain injuries in the calamity.
Biswajit Sahoo, the East Coast Railway CPRO, announced that both up and down lines had been restored, allowing trains to pass through the affected area. Efforts are now focused on restoring the middle line, ensuring the full resumption of rail services.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of train safety measures and the need for continuous evaluation and improvement. Chief Minister MK Stalin has urged the central government to promptly reevaluate train safety measures to prevent such accidents in the future.
Despite the tragedy, the miraculous survival of the six-year-old child offers a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. It is a testament to the unpredictability of life and the importance of cherishing each moment with loved ones. As the survivors and their families slowly recover from the shock, they are left with a profound gratitude for the second chance at life they have been given.
