The Hindu : Another passenger train derails in A.P.

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Monday, Jul 07, 2003

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Another passenger train derails in A.P.

By Our Special Correspondent

The engine of the Pakala-Bellary train lies on its side after derailing near Madanapalle in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh on Sunday.

TIRUPATI July 6. In yet another accident within four days of the Golconda Express tragedy at Warangal, the engine of the Bellary-Pakala passenger train derailed today, killing the assistant driver. The accident occurred at 2.15 a.m. at Thummanamgutta village near Madanapalle, Andhra Pradesh.

Sources attribute the accident to sabotage. Initial reports said that a fishplate and a length of track were found removed. But there are conflicting reports. One version said that extremists are active in the arid western tracts of the Chittoor district and they are responsible. Another said it could be an abortive attempt of train robbery by some.

The sources said that some boulders and sleepers were kept across the track making the engine jump off the rails, plough through the ballast before falling to its side. The assistant driver, Mani, who was said to have been leaning out of the engine window was crushed to death.

According to the South Central Railway General Manager, Stanley Babu, the accident was not caused by any mechanical or technical problem.

It could be an act of sabotage. A dog squad had been sent to the spot.

The bogies, however, remained in tact, but a dozen passengers received minor injuries..

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