Near Rangapani station in West Bengal, at least nine people lost their lives and 60 others were injured when a goods train collided with the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express. The accident occurred just seven kilometers away from New Jalpaiguri station, rattling the region and prompting swift rescue efforts.
The Kanchanjunga Express, traveling from Agartala to Sealdah via Silchar, was struck from behind by a goods train, causing three of its rear compartments to derail. Among the casualties were the loco pilot and assistant driver of the goods train, as well as the guard of the Kanchanjunga Express.
What Are The Initial Findings?
Jaya Varma Sinha, Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board, indicated initial findings pointed to human error, suggesting the goods train may have disregarded a signal. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the site to oversee rescue operations and assured an inquiry by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.
Malda Divisional Railway Manager Vikash Chaube confirmed that affected coaches of the Kanchanjunga Express had been brought to Malda station, where medical teams attended to the injured passengers. He emphasized ongoing efforts to assist the approximately 1,300 passengers affected by the collision, providing necessary medical care and refreshments.
What Impact Does This Have on Rail Services?
The incident led to the diversion of several trains to alternate routes, affecting travel schedules across the region, including prestigious services like the Rajdhani Express. Meanwhile, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced increased ex-gratia compensation for the victims’ families, offering Rs 10 lakh for fatalities, Rs 2.5 lakh for serious injuries, and Rs 50,000 for minor injuries.
Amid the tragic aftermath, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha pledged Rs 2 lakh compensation to families of any passengers from the state who lost their lives in the accident, underscoring efforts to support those affected by this calamitous event in north Bengal.