Official statement from Indian Railways or West Bengal government

Kanchenjunga Express Collides with Goods Train in Phansidewa, West Bengal; 5 Dead, 20-30 Injured

Jun 17, 2024, 04:55 AM

A tragic train accident occurred in West Bengal's Darjeeling district when the Sealdah-bound Kanchenjunga Express collided with a goods train near Rangapani station at around 9 am in the Phansidewa area. The collision resulted in the derailment of two coaches and severe damage to at least three bogeys. Initial reports indicate that five passengers have died, and 20 to 30 others sustained injuries, with over 30 passengers requiring medical attention. The incident has disrupted the train service from Agartala to Kolkata. Rescue operations are underway, with disaster teams, doctors, and ambulances rushed to the site. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock and concern over the accident. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that rescue operations are being conducted on a war footing in the NFR zone, with the injured being shifted to hospitals.