Agartala , Jun 17, 2024, TRIPURATIMES Desk

Agartala Jun 17: In a tragic incident that unfolded on Monday morning, at least five fatalities and as thirty injuries has been reported as the Kolkata-bound Kanchenjunga Express met with an accident.

The accident occurred near Rangapani Station, just before reaching the New Jalpaiguri station at approximately 9:30 am.

Initial reports indicate that the accident took place because of a collision with a freight train on the tracks, impacting at least three compartments of the Kanchenjunga Express filled with passengers.

Meanwhile, along with suspects of several casualties, the accident is leading to concerns over potential disruptions in railway communications with Northeast India.

Responding swiftly to the major accident, Tripura chief minister Dr Manik Saha spoke to the Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The chief minister in his social media platforms informed that a rescue operation is going on at full pace and the Union Railway Minister has assured of all necessary support to victims and their families.

In a few key points mentioning the vigilance of the government in the matter the chief minister’s social media update mentioned, “State Government is continuously monitoring the situation since morning. The Tripura Bhawan officials have been instructed to visit the accident site for proper monitoring of rescue and rehabilitation of accident victims. Cost of treatment of all injured will be borne by the State government and in case of any unfortunate accidental death, State Government has declared Rs. 2 lakhs ex-gratia payment to the next of kin of the victim”.