New Jalpaiguri, June 17, 2024 — A major train accident occurred near New Jalpaiguri station on Monday morning when the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjungha Express derailed. The incident happened at around 8:45 AM near Rangapani station. Two rear coaches of the train went off the tracks. Preliminary reports suggest that a goods train collided with the rear coaches of the Kanchanjungha Express, leading to the derailment. Thankfully, there have been no reports of casualties so far.
Details of the Sealdah Kanchanjungha Express Derailment
Eyewitnesses and local sources reported hearing a loud noise followed by chaos as the coaches derailed. Passengers gripped with fear, began to disembark from the train. The ongoing monsoon season has brought heavy rains, hampering rescue operations. Despite the weather, local residents have joined efforts to assist in the accident’s immediate aftermath.
Rescue teams, including disaster response units, arrived swiftly at the scene to start rescue operations. The difficult weather conditions and heavy rainfall in North Bengal have posed challenges, delaying the progress of these efforts. It is feared that some passengers might still be trapped in the derailed coaches. Tragically, the loco pilot of the train has been confirmed dead.
Official Response
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her shock over the incident. She assured the public that swift measures were being taken to manage the situation. In a statement, she mentioned that officials, medical teams, and disaster management units have been dispatched to the site. The rescue operations are being conducted with utmost urgency to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers.
Challenges Faced
The rescue operations are being hindered by heavy rains. This is typical for the monsoon season in North Bengal. The weather has made it difficult for rescue teams to reach the derailed coaches quickly. Despite these challenges, rescue workers are doing their best to reach any passengers who might still be trapped.
Residents have also played a significant role in the immediate response. They assisted passengers who were disembarking from the train. Their quick actions helped in the initial stages of the rescue operation.
Investigation Underway
The derailment has raised questions about the intensity and speed of both the Kanchanjungha Express and the goods train. Further investigations are expected to determine the exact cause of the accident and the extent of the damage. Authorities have emphasized the need for patience as rescue operations continue under challenging weather conditions.
The Railway Board has announced a high-level inquiry to investigate the cause of the accident. They are also examining the safety protocols in place to prevent such incidents in the future.
Impact on Train Services
The derailment has disrupted train services in the region. Many trains have been delayed or diverted to alternative routes. Passengers are advised to check the latest updates from the railway authorities before planning their travel.
Community Response
The local community has shown great resilience and solidarity in the wake of the accident. Many residents rushed to the scene to help the passengers and provide assistance. Their efforts have been praised by officials and passengers alike.
Local businesses and volunteers have provided food and shelter to stranded passengers. This has been a great help, especially given the challenging weather conditions.
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