In a tragic incident on Monday morning, a freight train collided with the Kanchanjunga Express in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people and leaving dozens injured. The collision, which occurred in the eastern state of West Bengal, has been attributed to human error, according to initial reports.
The accident happened when the freight train’s driver reportedly disregarded a signal, causing the cargo train to crash into the rear end of the passenger train. Jaya Varma Sinha, the head of the railway board that oversees India’s vast railway network, confirmed the details to reporters, stating that four compartments at the rear of the passenger train were derailed due to the impact. Most of these compartments were carrying cargo, with one being a passenger coach.
Senior police official Abhishek Roy, who is stationed in Darjeeling, told Reuters that rescuers have recovered at least 15 bodies from the mangled wreckage. The collision scene was chaotic, with TV footage showing one train car vertically lifted due to the impact, as rescue teams and local citizens worked together to search for survivors and victims amidst the wreckage.
The railway spokesperson De reported that swarms of people gathered at the site, offering help while authorities carried out rescue operations. The injured passengers have been transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw expressed his condolences and stated that all efforts are being made to assist the victims and their families. “The injured are being taken to hospital, and we are doing everything we can to ensure they receive the best possible care,” he said.
India’s railway network, one of the busiest in the world, sees frequent accidents, with hundreds reported each year. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of maintaining safety across the extensive system. Investigations are underway to determine the precise cause of the crash and to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The collision has prompted calls for improved safety measures and stricter adherence to railway protocols. Authorities are expected to review and implement necessary changes to enhance the safety of railway operations across the country.