8 passengers were killed and at least 25 others injured this morning after a goods train struck the Kanchanjunga Express traveling from Silchar, Assam to Sealdah, Kolkata.
The accident occurred near Rangapani station, close to New Jalpaiguri, when the goods train reportedly ran a signal and collided with the Kanchanjunga Express from behind. Several coaches of the express train derailed in the crash.
The accident occurred around 9 a.m. near Rangapani, disrupting the main rail link from Kolkata to Siliguri. As a result, long-distance train services have been temporarily suspended3. The heavy rainfall in Siliguri further complicated the rescue efforts.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that medical personnel and disaster response teams were deployed immediately to the scene. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are assisting with rescue operations, which are ongoing.
The injured are being transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Kanchanjunga Express Accident Under Investigation
The cause of the accident is currently under investigation. Initial reports suggest the goods train may have disobeyed a signal, but officials have not yet confirmed this.
Railway Helpline Numbers Established
The Indian Railways have released helpline numbers for those seeking information about the situation:
- Sealdah: 033-23508794 & 033-23833326
- Guwahati: 03612731621, 03612731622 & 03612731623
Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time. Authorities are investigating the cause of the collision, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for further developments.
This is a developing story, and further details will be released as they become available.
