5 killed, over 30 injured in Bengal train accident near New Jalpaiguri
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At least five persons were killed and over 30 others injured when two rear compartments of the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express derailed following a collision with a goods train near New Jalpaiguri railway station in West Bengal. The accident occurred early Monday morning, sending shockwaves through the region.
According to a senior railway official, the collision took place near Rangapani station, approximately 7 km from New Jalpaiguri. The impact of the collision from behind by the goods train’s locomotive caused the two rear compartments of the Kanchanjunga Express to derail abruptly.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her dismay over the incident, posting on social media platform X, stating, “Shocked to learn, just now, about a tragic train accident in Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district. While details are awaited, Kanchanjunga Express has reportedly been hit by a goods train.”
She confirmed that a rapid response team, including district officials, medical personnel and disaster management units, had been mobilised to the scene for rescue and medical aid.
The 13174 Kanchanjunga Express was en route from Agartala to Sealdah when the collision occurred around 9 am, as confirmed by railway authorities. Further details about the casualties and rescue operations are awaited as authorities continue to assess the situation.
The incident has led to disruptions in rail services in the region, and efforts are underway to restore normalcy. The exact cause of the collision is under investigation, with initial reports suggesting a failure in signaling or communication systems might have contributed to the tragic incident, said officials.
