Tragic Train Accident in West Bengal: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock and concern following a tragic train accident in Phansidewa, Darjeeling district, where the Kanchenjunga Express collided with a goods train early Monday morning. The collision occurred near New Jalpaiguri as the express train was en route from Agartala to Sealdah station in Kolkata.
“Shocked to learn, just now, about a tragic train accident,” Reports indicate the Kanchenjunga Express collided with a goods train. Swiftly mobilized to the scene are district officials, police personnel, medical teams, ambulances, and disaster response units, all geared towards aiding in rescue operations, providing medical assistance, and ensuring recovery efforts commence promptly. Action on war footing initiated.”
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also confirmed the incident, emphasizing that rescue operations were underway with urgency. “Rescue operations are going on a war footing. Senior officials are at the site,” he tweeted.
The collision resulted in several passengers sustaining injuries, prompting a rapid deployment of local disaster management teams, medical personnel, and law enforcement to the scene. Immediate efforts were focused on rescuing trapped passengers, providing medical aid, and restoring rail traffic.
The Kanchenjunga Express, a lifeline connecting Agartala to Kolkata, suffered damage to several coaches due to the impact of the goods train crashing into it from behind around 8 am. The incident has stirred concern among authorities and the public alike, highlighting the critical need for enhanced safety measures and swift emergency response in railway operations.
As rescue efforts continue at the accident site, authorities are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of all affected passengers. Mamata Banerjee’s proactive response underscores the state government’s commitment to managing crises and supporting those impacted by such unfortunate incidents.