SHIMLA/BALASORE- In a horrific train accident, as many as  261 people have lost their lives, while 900 others sustained injuries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who visited the site today and took stock of rescue operation, has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and has announced immediate assistance for the victims and their families.

The train crash occurred when the Coromandel Express, traveling from Howrah to Chennai, collided with derailed coaches of another train en route from Bengaluru to Kolkata at Balasore in Odisha. 

Himachal has joined Nation sharing grief and shock of the families of the bereaved  accident victims. 

The crash resulted in a horrific scene, with the impact causing significant damage to both trains involved.

The exact cause of the derailment and subsequent collision is yet to be determined, and investigations are underway to ascertain the sequence of events leading to the tragedy.

Rescue teams and emergency services swiftly arrived at the accident site to provide aid to the injured and carry out the arduous task of extricating victims from the wreckage.

Medical facilities in the nearby area have been mobilized to provide immediate treatment to those in need, with the injured being transported to hospitals in the region.

The local authorities have launched a massive rescue and relief operation, with efforts focused on locating any survivors and providing them with necessary medical attention.

The priority remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected by this tragic incident.

News of the accident has left the nation in shock and grief, with condolences pouring in from various quarters.

As the investigation into the crash continues, authorities will be working diligently to determine the exact causes and factors contributing to this unfortunate incident.