Hirakhand Express mishap: Jagan Mohan Reddy urges Rs 20 lakh compensation

Visakhapatnam: The way the trains are operated nowadays is worrisome as three major train mishaps occurred in the last three months in various parts of the country, said YSRC chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy here on Monday. He visited the Area Hospital in Parvatipuram, where dozens of injured persons in the Hirakhand Express mishap are undergoing treatment, and also the accident spot near Kuneru station.

“No matter whether it’s a sabotage or the Railway’s fault, the government should take the full responsibility for the derailment. It’s time for the railways to take more safety measures to prevent such accidents and win back the confidence of the common people. I demand the government to offer Rs 20 lakh as ex gratia to the families of those who died in the accident. The announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh is very less,” Mr Reddy said.

The Railways should also reveal details when the inquiry report comes up, for the public to know what really went wrong. “I request all the people to extend their helping hand to the accident victims,” said Mr. Reddy.

While consoling the victims of the accident at the Area Hospital in Parvathipuram, Mr. Reddy assured all support for those injured in the Hirakhand Express derailment in Vizianagaram district. He said the YSRCP will help victims to recover their health and in getting their ex-gratia.

Expressing deep shock at the mishap, Mr. Jagan Mohan Reddy offered his condolences. to all the bereaved families. YSRC senior leader Botsa Satyanaryarana and other leaders accompanied Mr. Reddy.