In response to the tragic collision between the 13174 Down Agartala-Sealdah Kanchanjungha Express and a Goods train near Rangapani and Chatterhat station under the Katihar division of N.F. Railway today morning, Indian Railways has taken swift action. The incident, occurring approximately 10 km from New Jalpaiguri station at 08:55 hrs, resulted in significant disruptions and casualties.
The railway authorities have announced an ex-gratia compensation package: Rs. 10 lakhs for the next of kin of each deceased, Rs. 2,50,000 for those who sustained grievous injuries, and Rs. 50,000 for individuals with minor injuries.
Immediately upon receiving the news, an Accident Relief Medical team, accompanied by necessary equipment and personnel, was dispatched to the site. Senior officials from New Jalpaiguri and Katihar also rushed to oversee rescue operations. General Manager of N.F. Railway, Chetan Kr. Shrivastava, along with other senior officials, departed from Maligaon to assess the situation firsthand. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has departed from Delhi to supervise operations at the accident site.
As a consequence of the collision, four coaches from the rear of the Kanchanjungha Express and five wagons of the container train derailed, obstructing both Up and Down lines. Tragically, the incident claimed the lives of eight individuals, while nearly 25 others sustained injuries. All injured passengers are receiving necessary medical attention.
Despite the disruption, the unaffected portion of the Kanchanjungha Express has resumed its journey. Passengers onboard were provided with food packets and water bottles to alleviate any inconvenience.
