New Delhi: The train accident in Punjab yesterday (Dec 14, 2004) was due to "human failure" and both the Assistant Station Masters of Bhangala and Mirthal Railway stations have been suspended, Lok Sabha was told today (Dec 15, 2004).

In a statement, Minister of State for Railways R Velu said, "Prima facie cause of the accident is one of human failure and Commissioner of Railway Safety, Northern Railway, is enquiring into the cause of the accident."

"Both the Assistant Station Masters of Bhangala and Mirthal Railway stations have been placed under suspension. The line has been restored at 0230 hours this morning and the first train passed at 0410 hours," he said.

The Minister said that there were 37 deaths. Fifty-three were injured with 13 already discharged and 40 in hospitals in Mukerian, Dasua, Jalandhar and Ludhiana.

An ex-gratia of Rs 1,00,000 each would be paid to families of those killed in the accident while those suffering grievous injuries would get Rs 15,000, the Minister said.

The wards of the dead and handicapped will be provided jobs in the Railways.

Velu said that hospital authorities were advised to provide necessary medical assistance to the injured.