Tragedy struck near Rangapani station in West Bengal when a goods train collided with the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express.
The devastating impact resulted in the loss of at least 15 lives, while around 60 individuals sustained injuries. The force of the collision caused three rear compartments of the express train to derail, exacerbating the severity of the situation.
Rescue operations are currently underway at the location, which is situated approximately 30 km from North Bengal's New Jalpaiguri station. Injured individuals are being swiftly transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention.
"At least 15 people have died in the accident till now and 60 suffered injuries," a senior police officer told PTI.
Earlier, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in a post on X: “Unfortunate accident in NFR zone. Rescue operations going on at war footing. Railways, NDRF and SDRF are working in close coordination. Injured are being shifted to the hospital. Senior officials have reached site.” The divisional railway manager (DRM) of North Frontier Railway's Katihar division said the 13174 Kanchanjunga Express was bound for Sealdah from Agartala and the accident occurred around 9 am.