Fatal Train Collision in West Bengal Leaves 9 Dead, Dozens Injured: Rescue Operations Underway

New Delhi: In a heartbreaking incident in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district, a train collision has resulted in the death of nine individuals, including three railway employees, and left around 50 others injured. The accident occurred early this morning when a goods train collided with the Kanchanjunga Express near Rangapani station, close to New Jalpaiguri. The Kanchanjunga Express was en route from Agartala in Tripura to Sealdah in Kolkata when the collision caused three of its coaches to derail.

The configuration of the train played a significant role in minimizing casualties. The impact was primarily absorbed by the rear section, which comprised a parcel coach and the guard’s coach, while the passenger compartments further ahead sustained less damage.

Jaya Verma Sinha, Chairperson of the Railway Board, addressed the media confirming that the accident happened around 9 am and that rescue operations have been concluded. The injured have been swiftly transferred to North Bengal Medical College for urgent medical care. “We are ensuring that the injured receive the best possible treatment,” Sinha assured.

Efforts are underway to resume the unaffected front portion of the Kanchanjunga Express so that passengers can continue their journey without further delay.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep shock and concern, remarking, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic train accident in the Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district. Although details are still emerging, reports indicate that the Kanchanjunga Express was hit by a goods train. Disaster response teams, medical professionals, ambulances, and senior officials have been mobilized for rescue and relief efforts.”

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of railway safety measures and the promptness of emergency responses to mitigate fatalities and provide immediate aid to the injured.