Launch Of Goa's First Vande Bharat Express Cancelled As Major Train Mishap Claims Many Lives In Odisha

Launching of Goa-Mumbai Vande Bharat Express by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today (3 June) was cancelled after a major train accident occurred near Balasore in Odisha, claiming many lives.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw after reaching Goa on Friday (2 June) evening, had to rush back to the accident site after learning of the major train mishap.

According to agency reports, at least 50 people died and 350 were injured on Friday (2 June).

The death toll in the tragic accident has now risen to 233, while over 900 have been injured due to a three-way accident at Balanagar in Odisha’s Balasore district, involving the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express, Coromandel Express, and a goods train.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took stock of the situation and spoke to Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

“Rescue ops are underway at the site of the mishap and all possible assistance is being given to those affected,” Vaishnaw said.

Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen Patnaik has also expressed deep concern over the train accident near Balasore. Both the President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister, have expressed deep condolences for the unfortunate incident.