The Sealdah-bound Kanchanjungha Express collided with a goods train near New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal on Monday morning. According to a senior North Frontier Railway (NFR) official, the 13174 Kanchanjunga Express from Agartala collided with the goods train near Rangapani close to New Jalpaiguri station.

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Several wagons of goods train derailed after colliding with the Kanchenjunga Express. According to the latest information, eight passengers died in the accident.

"We have information about 8 deaths in this accident," said Northeast Frontier Railway CPRO Sabyasachi De.

Meanwhile, Sealdah Eastern Railway has set up a control desk at Rangapani station after the accident of the Kanchenjunga Express train 

"We haven't received any calls yet. Two women had come to inquire..." Senior Ticket Collector, Raju Prashad Yadav was quoted as saying by ANI. 

 

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that ambulances and disaster teams have been rushed to the spot.

"Shocked to learn, just now, about a tragic train accident, in the Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district. While details are awaited, Kanchenjunga Express has reportedly been hit by a goods train. DM, SP, doctors, ambulances and disaster teams have been rushed to the site for rescue, recovery, and medical assistance. Action on war footing initiated," she said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered condolences to those who lost their loved ones and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.  

"Rescue operation completed. The driver (Loco pilot) who disregarded the signal has died & also the guard of Kanchenjunga Express has lost his life. Help desks established at all railway stations along Agartala- Sealdah route, " said Jaya Varma Sinha Chairman & CEO Railway Board.