Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the site of a tragic train collision near Rangapani, close to New Jalpaiguri station in West Bengal, on Monday afternoon. The accident involved a goods train colliding with the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express from behind, resulting in fatalities and injuries.
Due to the narrow roads, Minister Vaishnaw rode a pillion on a motorbike to reach the site.
The collision, which occurred on Monday morning, led to the deaths of at least 15 passengers and injured 60 others, according to a Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) official. The incident prompted a swift response from various agencies, including the Railways, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), all working in close coordination to manage the rescue operations.
In response to the accident, Railway Minister Vaishnaw announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh each to the next of kin of those who lost their lives. Additionally, he declared Rs 2.5 lakh for those grievously injured and Rs 50,000 for those with minor injuries. Minister Vaishnaw emphasized the government’s commitment to providing immediate relief and support to the affected families.
On social media platform X, Vaishnaw posted updates about the situation, stating, “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.” Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu also highlighted the ongoing rescue efforts, reinforcing the government’s dedication to swift and effective action.
The prompt visit by senior officials and the coordinated rescue operations underscore the gravity of the situation and the commitment to minimizing further harm. The incident has drawn significant attention to the safety and efficiency of railway operations in the region, as well as the need for continuous improvements to prevent such tragedies in the future.
(With PTI inputs)