Mamata announces Rs 500,000 for killed, Rs 100,000 for injured

Kolkata, Oct 21: Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee today announced a grant of Rs 500,000 each for the families of those killed and Rs 100,000 each for the injured in the accident involving Goa Sampark Kranti Express and Mewar Express near Mathura station.

''There can be no compensation for a life. Still we have decided to give Rs 500,000 to the families of those killed. Rs 100,000 will be given to those injured for their treatment,'' she told reporters before leaving for Delhi.

Ms Banerjee, who ordered a departmental inquiry into the tragic incident in which so far 22 people had been killed and 23 injured, said according to initial reports, pulling of chain in one of the trains might have resulted in the accident.

''According to prima facie reports, somebody pulled the chain in one of the trains,'' she said, adding detailed report would be available as early as possible.

Ms Banerjee said high officials of the Railways, including the Chairman of Railway Board, were present at the spot.

--UNI

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