The incident took place at around 3 AM near Pukhrayan, about 100 kms from here.
At least 30 people have been killed and over 150 others injured, IG (Kanpur range) Zaki Ahmed told PTI.
Over 150 injured people have been rushed to nearby hospitals in the area. All hospitals have been asked to be alert. More than 30 ambulances are pressed into service, the IG said, adding that over 250 police officials are helping carrying out rescue and relief operations.
Accident relief train was rushed to the spot, he said.
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Northern Central Railways spokesperson Vijay Kumar said that doctors and senior railway officials have reached the spot. Rescue and relief operations were being carried out by district administration and railway officials.
Though the cause of the derailment was not known immediately, sources said the nature and timing shows that the accident was caused by a rail fracture. However, the exact reason would be known only after an inquiry.
Meanwhile, Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu has ordered a probe into the train tragedy.
"All rescue relief work on to deal with unfortunate accident. All medical and other help rushed. Enquiry ordered. Situation monitored closely," Prabhu said in a tweet.
Railways has also released helpline numbers -- Indore- 07411072, Ujjain- 07342560906, Ratlam- 074121072, Orai- 051621072, Jhansi- 05101072, Pokhraya- 05113270239.
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