Kanchanjunga Express and goods train collide in Darjeeling, leading to multiple deaths and injuries

In a devastating incident this morning in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, eight people, including three Railway employees, tragically lost their lives when the Kanchanjunga Express collided with a stationary goods train. The accident, occurring near Rangapani station close to New Jalpaiguri, also resulted in about 50 injuries, varying in severity.

The Kanchanjunga Express, which was en route from Silchar in Assam to Sealdah in Kolkata, saw three of its coaches derailed due to the impact. Fortunately, the placement of the parcel and guard’s coaches at the rear likely prevented a higher casualty figure, as the passenger compartments were located further ahead, sustaining less damage.

Immediate Response and Official Statements

Railway Board chairperson Jaya Verma Sinha confirmed that the accident took place around 9 am and assured that rescue operations were promptly completed. All injured parties have been transported to North Bengal Medical College for treatment. Further updates included plans to resume the journey for the unaffected front portion of the Kanchanjunga Express to allow passengers to continue to their destinations.

A tragic train collision in Darjeeling district results in eight fatalities and numerous injuries, prompting immediate rescue efforts and a reevaluation of railway safety protocols.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her shock and detailed the immediate response, which included the dispatch of doctors and disaster response teams to the accident site. The area is currently under significant scrutiny as the Kanchanjunga Express serves a vital route in the Chicken’s Neck corridor, connecting Northeastern cities like Silchar and Agartala with Bengal.

Compensation and Political Reactions

In the wake of the tragedy, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced compensation for the victims’ families and those injured. The Indian government has also stepped in to provide additional financial assistance.

Political figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, have issued statements expressing their condolences and emphasizing the need for accountability and proper management of railway operations. Criticism has been directed towards the current administration for perceived mismanagement leading to repeated rail accidents.

The incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding railway safety in India, a topic that has seen persistent scrutiny over the years. This accident not only impacts the lives of those directly involved but also highlights broader issues of infrastructure safety and management within the national railway network.