In Bihar, seven people were killed and 24 injured after eleven bogies of Seemanchal Express derailed at Hajipur early this morning.

The Delhi-bound train originated from Jogbani in Kishanganj district and a rail fracture is to have caused the derailment at Sahadai Buzurg in Sonepur division.

Relief and rescue operation are on in full swing. Chief Public Relations Officer, East Central Zone, Rajesh Kumar said, a team of National Disaster Response Force is at the spot and along with an accident relief trains.

Railways has ordered an inquiry into the accident. The Ministry has announced an ex-gratia of 5 lakh rupees each to the next of kin of those killed.

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal’s office said in a tweet that one lakh rupees will be given to the grievously injured and fifty thousand to those with minor injuries. It said, all medical expenses will be borne by the Railways.

The Railways has also issued helpline numbers. The numbers are: Sonpur – 06158221645, Hajipur – 06224272230 and Barauni – 06279232222.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled the loss of lives due to the derailment. In a tweet, Mr Modi said, Railways, NDRF, and local authorities are providing all possible assistance.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also expressed grief over the incident and wished speedy recovery of injured passengers.

The state government has announced financial assistance of 4 lakh rupees to the family of every deceased and 50,000 to the injured.