UK envoy satisfied with Indian authorities’ response
Monday, 14/09/2015
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CHANDIGARH: British High Commissioner Sir James Bevan on Sunday said they were satisfied with the response of the Indian railway authorities after a toy train got derailed on the Kalka-Shimla narrow gauge section, a UNESCO heritage track, on Saturday. Of the 37 British nationals, two died while 13 others were injured.
Sir James Bevan, British High Commissioner, addressing the media in Chandigarh on Sunday.
Holding a press conference at Hotel Taj here on Sunday, Bevan said, “I am here to lead the British government’s reaction to the train accident. I want to praise Indian authorities for their support, and the medical staff who treated the injured,” adding that it was a first-class effort on their part and the British nationals had also praised it.
Bevan had come from Delhi on Sunday morning and went to meet the injured at Max Hospital at SAS Nagar. He also met the men who lost their wives and others.
In reply to a question, he said, “We are happy that the authorities have announced investigations” adding that it was up to the passengers whether they wanted to depose before the inquiry committee.
He said some Britons had decided to continue with their holiday.
‘NO NEED OF FRESH ADVISORY’
On whether the British government would issue an advisory for those who would like to travel by the toy train on the Kalka-Shimla stretch, he said, “About 8 lakh British nationals visit India every year. I don’t see any reason why I should change the travel advice. But we will closely monitor the probe.”
CONDITION OF 3 BRITISH NATIONALS IS STABLE
The condition of the three British nationals admitted to Max Super-specialty Hospital, SAS Nagar, is said to be stable. According to Dr Nitin Yogesh, senior consultant, neurosurgery, Diana had suffered head and chest injuries and was conscious and stable. Andrew, on the other hand, was still not fully conscious and was being treated.
