A train accident in Siliguri sub-division, 5 died and 25 injured.

Siliguri (West Bengal), June 17: Five persons were killed and more than 25 critically injured after a goods train rammed the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjungha Express from behind the Siliguri sub-division of Darjeeling district on Monday morning.

The collision took place near Ruisadha village, close to Rangapani railway station.

Three coaches of an express train were badly damaged:

Darjeeling SP Abhishek Roy said three coaches of the express train were badly damaged. “So far, five deaths have been confirmed, and over 25 persons are injured. Rescue operations are underway,” Roy said.

Indian Railways has issued helpline numbers 7542028020, 9002041952 and 9771441956 and help desk numbers 033-23508794, 033-23833326 and 628701805 for assistance.

 Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw posted on platform X, calling it an “unfortunate accident in the NRF zone,” adding that rescue and evacuation are being conducted on a war footing. He said the Railway, NDRF and SDRF are working jointly, the injured are being shifted to hospitals, and senior officials are on the site.

Vaishnaw also announced enhanced ex gratia compensation:

Vaishnaw also announced enhanced ex gratia compensation: Rs 10 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased, Rs 2.5 lakh for those with grievous injuries, and Rs 50,000 for passengers with minor injuries.

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EOM.