What Led to Collision Between Kanchanjunga Express and Freight Train In Bengal | Key Details

Kolkata: The train mishap which unfolded near Rangapani in Darjeeling district of West Bengal on Monday occured after a goods train overshot the signal and rammed into Sealdah-bound Kanchanjungha Express, claimed sources. 

At least eight passengers died, and over 20 are seriously injured, said the Additional Superintendent of Darjeeling Police, adding that the injured passengers have been rushed to the nearby hospital for treatment. 

"Five passengers have died, 20-25 injured in the accident. The situation is serious. The incident occurred when a goods train rammed into Kanchenjunga Express," said Abhishek Roy, Additional SP of Darjeeling Police.

The collision resulted in the derailment of at least two rear compartments of the Kanchanjungha Express as the locomotive section of the goods train struck the express train from behind, causing significant damage and derailment of the compartments.

Did Goods Train Jump Signal?

The initial probe into the train mishap revealed that the freight train jumped a signal and hit the rear deck of the Kanchenjunga Express, leading to train derailment. The train was coming from Agartala and was heading to Sealdah station in Kolkata when the accident occured around 8:30am.

Multiple teams of the National Disaster Response Force and ambulances have been deployed at the spot. Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is learnt to be monitoring the situation from the Railways war room in Delhi.

“Unfortunate accident in NFR zone. Rescue operations going on at war footing. Railways, NDRF and SDRF are working in close coordination. The injured are being shifted to the hospital. Senior officials have reached the site,” Vaishnaw wrote on X. 

Helpline Number Issued

A special helpdesk has also been set up at the Sealdah station in connection with the matter. Those seeking information or assistance regarding the accident can contact the helpline numbers - 033-23508794 and 033-23833326.

An additional helpdesk is being set up at Naihati station to provide further assistance to passengers and their families.

"Sealdah division is sincerely working to address the situation and provide assistance to those affected by the collision. We will continue to provide updates from time to time," officials said.