Odisha Government Faces Challenge in Identifying Bodies of Train Accident Victims

After the completion of search and rescue operations, the Odisha government is now faced with the challenging task of identifying the bodies of those who died.

On Sunday, the state government revised the death toll from 288 to 275. Chief Secretary P K Jena stated that 108 bodies have been identified so far and will be handed over to their relatives after necessary procedures.

To aid in the identification process, the state government has published lists and photographs of the deceased and the injured receiving treatment at various hospitals on three websites. Additionally, a toll-free helpline and a control center have been established in Bhubaneswar.

More than 170 bodies were brought to Bhubaneswar on Sunday morning and are currently being held at the morgues of six private and government hospitals in the city.

Jena explained, “After thorough verification and a report by the Balasore district administration, the final death toll has been set at 275. Some bodies were mistakenly counted twice.”

A senior government official stated, “The photographs of those killed in the Balasore train accident are being shared solely to aid in identification. No one, including the media, should reproduce or publish them without written approval from the Special Relief Commissioner, Odisha.”

The state government has established two 24/7 toll-free numbers (18003450061/1929) to assist individuals searching for their relatives. Additionally, a control room has been set up at the BMC-ICOMC tower in Bhubaneswar to assist the relatives and friends of the victims and the injured. Nodal officers have been assigned to coordinate with various hospitals and other agencies.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister briefed the Prime Minister on the situation, particularly regarding the treatment of the injured. He assured that all necessary measures are being taken to save the lives of those receiving treatment in different hospitals in Odisha.

Patnaik mentioned that 1,175 patients were admitted to the state’s hospitals, of which 793 have been discharged. “Currently, 382 passengers are receiving treatment in various government and private hospitals. Most of the injured patients are in stable condition,” he added.