Major Train Disruption in Andhra Pradesh: Over 37 Wagons Derail Near Vishakhapatnam

Train Services Halted Due to Derailment

Koraput/Nandapur: Train operations faced significant interruptions after a freight train carrying iron ore derailed on the Kothavalasa-Kirandul (KK) rail line close to Chimidipalli in Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, on Wednesday. This rail line links Kothavalasa in Andhra Pradesh with Kirandul in Chhattisgarh. The derailment has caused a halt in train services between Visakhapatnam and Koraput, as more than half of the train's wagons are trapped within a tunnel. The train was en route to Vijayawada after loading iron ore at Kirandul. Officials reported that the incident occurred between Araku (Andhra) and Tadara, near Kimtipalli station.

Numerous derailed wagons remain lodged in the tunnel, complicating rescue and clearance efforts. Reports indicate that the freight train consisted of over 59 wagons filled with iron ore. Railway officials have confirmed that the locomotive pilot and crew are unharmed; however, the track infrastructure has sustained considerable damage. Consequently, all train movement along the Visakhapatnam-Kirandul and Koraput routes has been suspended until further notice.

Relief and rescue teams, including members from the Visakhapatnam DRM division, are currently on-site evaluating the situation and working to clear the derailed wagons and repair the damaged tracks. The timeline for complete restoration is uncertain due to the tunnel's location and the extent of the damage. As an interim solution, both freight and passenger trains heading to Visakhapatnam via Koraput will be redirected. Railway Protection Force (RPF) Intelligence Officer D Bag stated that all possible measures are being taken to restore normal train services promptly.