India was left in shock by the recent train accident near the Bahanaga Baazar station in Odisha’s Balasore district, which claimed the lives of 278 people and left over 1000 passengers injured. As the nation grapples with the aftermath of its deadliest train crash, help and support have started pouring in from all corners, including some of India’s leading corporations and organizations.
Adani Group: Adani group chairperson Gautam Adani was the first to extend a helping hand, announcing that the group would sponsor the school education of students who lost their parents in the accident. Adani expressed his deep distress and emphasized the joint responsibility of the community to provide strength and a better future for the affected children.
Reliance Foundation: Nita Ambani-led Reliance Foundation announced a range of measures to support the affected individuals both in the immediate and long term. These measures include offering employment opportunities to one family member of the deceased, providing free fuel for ambulances, ration supplies, medicines, counseling services, skill training, and livelihood support. Mrs. Nita Ambani herself shared a heartfelt statement expressing condolences and vowing support throughout the healing and rebuilding journey.
JSW Foundation: JSW Foundation, the social arm of JSW Group, provided immediate support at the accident site. Collaborating with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), the foundation mobilized medical aid, ambulances, and supplies to assist the affected community.
SBI Life: SBI Life, a life insurance company, has taken steps to ease the claim settlement process for policyholders impacted by the train accident. They have implemented immediate measures to expedite claim settlements and offer financial relief to the policyholders and their families.
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance: ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has also relaxed the claim settlement process for the families impacted by the Odisha train accident. The company will expedite the claim settlements and provide financial relief to those affected by the tragedy.
Ramakrishna Vivekananda Mission: The Ramakrishna Vivekananda Mission in Barrackpore, West Bengal, has generously offered to take responsibility for all children orphaned by the accident, providing them with care and education at no cost.
Indian Railways Compensation: Indian Railways has announced a compensation package for the family of the deceased and those who have been injured in the crash. The compensation includes Rs 10 lakh in case of death, Rs 2 lakh for grievous injuries, and Rs 50,000 for minor injuries. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on the affected families and assist them during this difficult time.
These companies, organizations, and Indian Railways’ compensation package are collectively contributing to the relief efforts and supporting the affected communities during this difficult time. Their compassion and assistance demonstrate the solidarity and resilience of the nation as it comes together to rebuild and heal from this tragic event.
It is important to note that while these corporations and organizations have stepped forward, many other corporate and industrial entities in Odisha should also extend their support in such a critical situation. Their assistance can significantly contribute to the relief and rehabilitation efforts for the affected individuals and communities.
In addition to the support from various entities, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, along with 5T secretary VK Pandian and the entire team, deserves commendation for their exceptional efforts in managing the train accident. Their swift response, coordination, and effective implementation of rescue and relief measures have been instrumental in mitigating the impact of the disaster.
The combined efforts of government authorities, corporate entities, and individuals highlight the resilience and unity of the nation during this challenging time. As Odisha strives to recover and rebuild, it is crucial that everyone continues to come together and extend their support to help the affected communities regain stability and hope.
Prasanta Patnaik