Kolkata, June 17, 2024 — In a tragic incident on the morning of Eid-ul-Azha, a train accident occurred involving the Kanchenjunga Express, which was bound for Sealdah in Kolkata from Gauhati, Assam. The accident took place around 9:30 a.m. near Rangapani, just before the New Jalpaiguri station, when a speeding freight train collided with the rear of the Kanchenjunga Express.

The collision resulted in the derailment of the last two coaches of the passenger train and severely twisted a total of three coaches. So far, five people have been reported dead, with rescue operations currently underway. Local residents, alerted by the loud noise of the crash, were quick to rush to the scene to assist.

Heavy rain in Siliguri has complicated the rescue efforts, but authorities are working diligently to accelerate the process. The railway line where the accident occurred is a crucial link between Kolkata and Siliguri, leading to the temporary suspension of long-distance trains on this route.

The Railways has launched an investigation to determine if there was any negligence in the signaling system or other factors contributing to the accident.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her concern over the incident on social media. She posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "I received news of a train accident in Darjeeling district. The details are still unclear. I heard that a goods train hit the Kanchenjunga Express. The District Magistrate, SP, doctors, and ambulances have already reached the site. Rescue operations are being carried out urgently."

The accident brings back painful memories of last year's devastating train crash in Bahanaga, Odisha, which claimed over 400 lives. The recurrence of such incidents has left common railway passengers in a state of panic, especially on a day of celebration like Eid.

As rescue operations continue, the priority remains the safety and recovery of those affected, and efforts are being made to restore normalcy to the disrupted rail services.