Siliguri Train Crash: Nine Dead, Dozens Injured in Accident
Monday’s derailment of the Kanchanjunga Express in Siliguri, Bengal, led to nine deaths and over 30 injuries after a goods train collided with it. The accident occurred in the Rangapani area near New Jalpaiguri station, claiming the lives of the goods train driver, his assistant, and the guard of the express train.
Jaya Varma Sinha, the Railway Board’s Chairman and CEO, revealed that initial investigations pointed to human error, with the goods train driver failing to heed a signal. The Kanchanjunga Express was en route from Agartala to Sealdah when the accident occurred, resulting in two compartments derailing dramatically. Rescue operations have concluded, with the injured transported to nearby hospitals.
The incident has drawn attention to railway safety, with financial assistance being announced for the victims: Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund and up to Rs 10 lakh from Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for the deceased and injured. The accident’s aftermath saw significant political reactions, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders expressing their condolences. Railways Minister Vaishnaw traveled to Darjeeling to oversee the response.
Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other officials have been active on the ground, ensuring medical aid and support for the affected. Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the government, linking the accident to broader issues of mismanagement.
Special helpdesks have been set up at Sealdah and Naihati stations to assist passengers and their families. Officials assured continuous updates and support, emphasizing their dedication to resolving the crisis and providing necessary aid.
The Kanchanjunga Express continued its journey to Sealdah, leaving behind the damaged compartments. The incident underscores the need for stringent safety measures in railway operations, highlighting the tragic consequences of human error.
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