Bengal Train Accident: Eyewitnesses Recount Horror of Kanchenjunga Express Mishap in Darjeeling

Darjeeling: The eyewitnesses of the train mishap in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal recounted the horror and said that there was such a loud noise that entire locality went into panic mode. Later, they came to know that a train accident had happened. 

At least eight died and several others were injured after a Sealdah (Kolkata)-bound Kanchanjunga Express derailed after being hit by a goods train in Darjeeling district. The train was en route to the Sealdah from Tripura's Agartala when the accident took place at nearly 8:30 am on Monday. 

In the aftermath of the collission, it was revealed that the goods train crashed into the passengers train from behind, leading to derailment of its two compartments, said officials. 

Eyewitnesses Recount Horror 

A local resident said that the goods train came from behind on the same railway track on which the passenger train was travelling. “We rushed to the spot for rescue of passengers onboard Kanchenjunga Express after it was hit by a goods train. Unfortunately, the incident occured because the goods train was coming on the same track of the passenger train.”

Another eyewitness to the train mishap said, “It was horrific. The locals are assisting the security forces in rescue operation. The death toll may climb up. We are on our toes to provide any assistance required by the security forces.” 

“Suddenly there was such a loud noise that we came running and saw that a train accident had happened," remarked third eyewitness to the train accident. A passenger of Kanchenjunga Express train said, “ I was travelling in B1 coach when the train was hit. I have been rescued, I have suffered an injury on my head.”

Helpline Number Issued

A special helpdesk has also been set up at the Sealdah station in connection with the matter. Those seeking information or assistance regarding the accident can contact the helpline numbers - 033-23508794 and 033-23833326.

An additional helpdesk is being set up at Naihati station to provide further assistance to passengers and their families.

"Sealdah division is sincerely working to address the situation and provide assistance to those affected by the collision. We will continue to provide updates from time to time," officials said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives, calling the incident "saddening".

"The railway accident in West Bengal is saddening. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. Spoke to officials and took stock of the situation. Rescue operations are underway to assist the affected. The Railways Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw is on the way to the site of the mishap as well," he tweeted.