New Delhi | Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge hit out at the Modi government on Monday over the train derailment in Andhra Pradesh, saying the enthusiasm shown in flagging off trains with fanfare should also be shown in action towards railway safety and the well-being of passengers.

At least 13 people were killed and 50 injured after two trains collided on the Howrah-Chennai line in Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh on Sunday evening, officials said.

In a post on X, Kharge said, "Extremely saddened to learn about the train derailment tragedy in Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh, where precious lives have been lost and several people have suffered injuries." "Our deepest condolences to the families of the bereaved. We pray for the speedy recovery of the injured," he said and requested Congress workers to provide every possible help.

It seems that all the claims of safety by the Union government, post the Balasore train tragedy have evaporated in thin air, he said.

"The same enthusiasm of flagging trains with fanfare and propaganda should also be shown in action towards railway safety and the well-being of crores of daily passengers," Kharge said.

In a post on Facebook, Rahul Gandhi said he was anguished by the news of several deaths and injuries in the train accident in Vizianagaram.

"I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and hope for the speedy recovery of all those who are injured," he said.

He urged Congress workers of the region to provide all possible assistance to the administration in relief and rescue work.