In the aftermath of a devastating train collision in Odisha state, India, the death toll has tragically surged to over 280, with more than 850 individuals reported as injured. The collision, which occurred on [Date], has become the country’s deadliest rail accident in over two decades, according to a state government official cited by AFP.
Expressing his heartfelt condolences, HH Sheikh Mohammed, the leader of the United Arab Emirates, took to Twitter to offer support and solidarity to the people of India. He tweeted, “@HHShkMohd: I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the people of India in the wake of the tragic train collision. Our hearts go out to the families who lost loved ones and to the injured. The UAE stands in solidarity with India during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”
Rescue operations are still ongoing at the accident site, as stated by Sudhanshu Sarangi, the director general of Odisha Fire Services. He mentioned that there are a significant number of serious injuries, and rescue teams continue their efforts to provide aid and assistance to those affected by the incident.
To manage the overwhelming number of casualties, Chief Secretary Pradeep Jena announced on Twitter that over 200 ambulances have been dispatched to the scene of the accident in Odisha’s Balasore district. Additionally, 100 additional doctors have been mobilized to join the 80 already present to provide immediate medical attention to the injured.
In a gesture of mourning and respect for the victims, the state has declared Saturday as a day of state mourning. This serves as an acknowledgment of the immense loss and a collective expression of grief throughout the region.
It is worth noting that this tragic train collision surpasses the magnitude of India’s deadliest railway accident, which occurred in 1981. During that incident, a train plunged off a bridge and into a river in Bihar state, resulting in an estimated 800 casualties.
As the world comes to terms with this devastating incident, the global community stands in solidarity with India. The support and condolences from HH Sheikh Mohammed and the United Arab Emirates underscore the importance of unity and support during times of crisis. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families who have lost loved ones and the injured as they navigate this difficult journey of recovery.
