Kanchanjungha Express Train Collision: Several Feared Injured, Authorities Issue Helpline Number

Kolkata: Five people were dead and many others were injured after a goods train rammed into Kanchenjunga Express train in Darjeeling district in West Bengal on Monday.

Kanchanjungha Express which runs between Silchar in Assam to Sealdah in Kolkata was Sealdah bound when a goods train hit it from behind near Rangapani station, located close to New Jalpaiguri in North Bengal, according to Sabyasachi De, Chief Public Relations Officer - Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR).

As per Katihar Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Katihar, there could be 10 to 15 casualties while dozens are reported to be injured.

Amid reports of casualties, railway authorities have issued emergency helpline numbers for the kins of passengers. 

Sealdah Eastern Railway set up a control desk at Rangapani station. The numbers are: 033-23508794 and 033-23833326

Helpline Number at Katihar: 9002041952 and 9771441956

Guwahati Railway Station helpline number: 03612731621, 03612731622, 03612731623

Helpline Number at Lumding Station: 03674263958, 03674263831, 03674263120, 03674263126, 03674263858

Kir Station Help Desk: 6287801805

Howrah help desk: 03326413660

According to initial reports, two coaches of express train got derailed after a goods train collided with it from the rear. The incident happened at Rangapani area in the Katihar Railway Division ahead of New Jalpaiguri Junction at around 8:45 am today.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that the mishap took place in Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district.

"Shocked to learn, just now, about a tragic train accident, in Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district. While details are awaited, Kanchenjunga Express has reportedly been hit by a goods train," Mamata Banerjee said in a post on X.

"The DM, SP, doctors, ambulances and disaster teams have been rushed to the site for rescue, recovery, medical assistance. Action on war-footing initiated," the West Bengal chief minister said.