Darjeeling (West Bengal), June 17 (ANI):A tragic train accident occurred on Monday morning when a goods train rammed into the Kanchenjunga Express in Darjeeling district, West Bengal, leaving several people feared dead and many others injured.
The Kanchenjunga Express, which operates between Silchar in Assam and Sealdah in Kolkata, was en route to Sealdah when it was struck from behind near Rangapani station, close to New Jalpaiguri in North Bengal. Sabyasachi De, Chief Public Relations Officer of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), confirmed the incident.
According to the Katihar Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), there could be 10 to 15 casualties, with dozens reported injured. Initial reports indicate that two coaches of the express train derailed following the collision at around 8:45 am in the Rangapani area of the Katihar Railway Division, ahead of New Jalpaiguri Junction.
Tripura Transport Minister Sushant Chaudhary shared on social media that no specific information on the number of casualties had been received yet. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her shock over the incident, stating that the accident took place in the Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district.
“Shocked to learn, just now, about a tragic train accident in the Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district. While details are awaited, Kanchenjunga Express has reportedly been hit by a goods train,” Banerjee posted on X. “The DM, SP, doctors, ambulances, and disaster teams have been rushed to the site for rescue, recovery, and medical assistance. Action on war-footing initiated,” she added.
