More than 25 still missing as 40 die in MP's twin train derailment

Reports said those killed include ten women and five children.

About 300 people have been rescued since the accident took place at around 11:30 pm on Tuesday night. 

Six coaches of the Kamayani Express running from Mumbai to Varanasi derailed while crossing a culvert near the Machak river close to Harda, about 160 kilometres from Bhopal, the state's capital.

Minutes later, an engine and four coaches of the Janata Express, going to Mumbai from Jabalpur, derailed.

Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu told Parliament on Wednesday  that a flash flood caused the swollen Machak river to overflow and wash out a section of the rail tracks, leading to the derailment of two trains. 

He said an inquiry into the incidents has been ordered and the families of the victims will get ex-gratia as cmpensation.


President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have mourned the loss of lives due to the twin derailment.

"#PresidentMukherjee condoles loss of lives due to derailment of the Kamayani Express & Janata Express in Madhya Pradesh," President of India's official Twitter page posted

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: "The two train accidents in Madhya Pradesh are deeply distressing. Deeply pained over the loss of lives. Condolences to families of deceased."

The Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu tweeted: "Enquiry ordered,Ex gratia to be paid immediately.Flooding of tracks due to very heavy downpour.Will make detailed statement to parliament."

People who live near the accident site swung into action to rescue the trapped passengers. Rescue teams delayed  because heavy rain.

Reports said at about 7.30 am on Wednesday, most of the people trapped in the derailed coaches had been rescued. The unaffected coaches of the two trains were detached and moved to Itarsi.

Three special trains took doctors and rescue teams to the accident site.