Four railway officials were suspended and three others were sent on leave following a rail accident in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh (UP), which resulted in the deaths of 24 people and injured several others.

The incident occurred when the 13-coach Utkal Express locomotive derailed roughly 130km north of New Delhi during a journey to Haridwar from Puri, near Muzaffarnagar, UP, according to media sources.

Initial investigation reports suggest that the incident occurred due to track repair works carried out by the railway staff on the line.

"The incident occurred when the 13-coach Utkal Express locomotive derailed roughly 130km north of New Delhi during a journey to Haridwar from Puri, near Muzaffarnagar, UP."

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has completed the rescue and search operations, and the bodies of the victims have been pulled out from the wreckage.

Heavyweight cranes and gas cutters were used to recover the passengers stuck inside the debris, and they were then shifted to nearby hospitals.

The accident is the fourth major rail incident in the last year, as well as the third in the state this year, Reuters reported.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Roughly 150 people previously died in a train accident in the state that occurred in November.

Railway Technology Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Railway Technology Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now