Sound of oncoming train drowned out by fireworks, dozens dead

  • 20/10/2018
train tracks
Police say there are at least are 50 dead. Photo credit: File

Dozens people are feared dead after a train ran over people in the north Indian state of Punjab.

Local media say those on the tracks failed to heard the sound of it approaching, as it was drowned out by fireworks being let off as part of a religious festival.

Police say there are at least are 50 dead.

"We do not know the circumstances, but many people in the crowds rushed towards the rail tracks and were crushed by the train," a police official said.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said the rescue operation was on a "war footing."

Newshub.