Siliguri, West Bengal, June 17, 2024
In a devastating train collision near Rangapani station, approximately seven kilometers from New Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express met with a fatal accident. The incident occurred when a goods train collided with the Kanchanjunga Express from behind, causing the derailment of two rear compartments. The collision, which took place around 9 a.m., resulted in nine fatalities and left at least 60 passengers injured.
Details of the Accident
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a payment of Rs. 2 lakh each from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 for the injured. President Droupadi Murmu expressed her condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock over the incident, stating, “I am shocked to learn about a tragic train accident in the Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district.” She assured that emergency response teams, including medical and disaster relief units, have been mobilized to the site despite heavy rainfall in Siliguri impacting rescue efforts.
Responses and Relief Efforts
Railway authorities confirmed that the accident occurred due to a signal overshoot by the goods train, which crashed into the Kanchanjunga Express following a scheduled direction reversal at Lumding. As a result of the reversal, the coaches originally at the front of the train became the rear end, bearing the brunt of the collision.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who is en route to the accident site, stated that rescue operations are underway in collaboration with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). He assured that injured passengers are being promptly transported to medical facilities.
Impact on Train Services
The incident has halted long-distance train services temporarily, impacting the movement of trains in the Northeast region. Helpline numbers have been released for information and assistance regarding the accident.
The Kanchanjunga Express, vital for connectivity between Bengal and Northeastern cities like Silchar and Agartala, is frequently used by tourists heading to Darjeeling. The collision has raised concerns about the safety protocols on railway routes, especially in crucial corridors like the Chicken’s Neck.
Safety Concerns and Investigations
As investigations continue into the exact causes of the accident, authorities are focused on completing rescue operations and restoring normalcy to rail services in the affected region.
For further updates, concerned individuals can contact the helpline numbers: 033-23508794, 033-23833326 (Sealdah), and 03612731621, 03612731622, and 03612731623 (Guwahati).
The nation mourns the lives lost in this tragic incident and stands united in support of those affected by the collision.
Source: Based on information from various news agencies and railway authorities.
