An early morning train crash in southern India left of two dozen people dead, officials confirm. Railways ministry spokesman Anil Kumar Saxena said the crash involved a Hampi Express passenger train and a goods train in Penukonda, Andhra Pradesh state.
Authorities believe the driver of the passenger train ignored a red signal while slowing down in preparation for a brief stop in Penukonda around 3:20 a.m. The train collided with the stationary goods train, causing four coaches to derail. One coach caught fire and at least 17 passengers died in the blaze. Eight passengers in other coaches also died. At least 55 people were injured, including the driver and his assistant.
Rescue teams reportedly arrived at the scene over 3 hours after the accident to cut open a coach and free 80 passengers trapped inside. Many passengers complained about the alleged lack of quick response from authorities.
The Hampi Express train left Hubil around 6 p.m. Monday and was supposed to arrive in Bangladore, its final destination, shortly after 6 a.m. Tuesday.
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