JALPAIGURI, WEST BENGAL – In a horrific turn of events, a major train accident unfolded near Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, on Monday morning. A freight train, reportedly disregarding a signal, slammed into the rear carriages of the Kanchenjunga Express, which was travelling towards Sealdah station.
Deadly Impact: The collision caused catastrophic damage, derailing several bogies of the passenger train. Initial reports indicate a grim toll of at least 5 people confirmed dead and 25 passengers injured. Rescue efforts are currently underway to locate and evacuate survivors trapped in the mangled wreckage. Crews are using heavy cutting equipment to extricate those trapped in the most severely damaged compartments.
CM Banerjee Expresses Shock: Reacting to the tragedy, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took to Twitter to express her deep shock and condolences. She immediately ordered the deployment of District Magistrates, Superintendents of Police, medical teams, ambulances, and disaster response units to the accident site. The state government is working tirelessly to ensure that all those affected receive the necessary medical attention and support.
Full Force Rescue Operation: A large-scale rescue operation is in full swing, involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), divisional railway teams, and over 15 ambulances. NDRF teams are specially trained and equipped to handle these types of emergencies, and they are working diligently to locate survivors amidst the debris. The Railway Ministry has established a dedicated war room to monitor the situation closely, with senior officials reviewing the incident and coordinating rescue efforts.
Helpline Numbers Established: The state government has activated several helpline numbers to assist families and individuals seeking information about their loved ones onboard the Kanchenjunga Express.
- Sealdah Help Desk: 033-23508794, 033-23833326
- GHY Station Help Desk: 03612731621, 03612731622, 03612731623
- LMG Helpline: 03674263958, 03674263831, 03674263120, 03674263126, 03674263858
- Katihar Helpline: 09002041952, 9771441956
- Lumding Helpline: 0367-4263126, 0367-4263858
Railway Minister Vows Swift Action: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav took to Twitter, assuring the nation that rescue efforts are underway at a war footing. He confirmed collaboration between the Railways, NDRF, and SDRF to ensure swift medical attention for the injured. Senior officials have also been dispatched to the accident site to oversee the operation and provide assistance to those involved in the rescue efforts.
The situation remains fluid as rescue efforts continue. We will provide further updates as more details become available. This is a developing story.