Train Accident, Kanchanjunga express accident

Tragic Train Collision in West Bengal: Key Details and Responses

On the morning of June 17, 2024, a tragic accident occurred near Rangapani station in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district when a goods train collided with the stationary Sealdah-bound Kanchanjungha Express. The collision resulted in the derailment of three rear coaches of the express train, leading to the deaths of nine individuals, including seven passengers and two railway staffers, and injuring 41 others.

The Incident and Immediate Response

The Kanchanjungha Express had stopped on the tracks between Ranipatra Railway Station and Chattar Hat Junction when it was hit from behind by the goods train. The impact was severe enough to derail the rear compartments and cause significant damage. According to railway sources, the goods train was given written authority (TA 912) to pass red signals due to a failure in the automatic signalling system in the section. Despite this authorization, the goods train should have adhered to strict speed and stopping guidelines, which were apparently not followed, leading to the catastrophic accident.

Government and Official Reactions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, labeling the incident as tragic and extending his prayers for the quick recovery of the injured. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the accident site, promising a thorough investigation by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS). He also announced compensation packages for the victims: ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased, ₹2.5 lakh for those grievously injured, and ₹50,000 for those with minor injuries. Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of restoring operations on this crucial route connecting the northeast with the rest of India.

Political Reactions and Criticisms

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the Railway Ministry, accusing it of neglecting passenger safety and focusing only on fare hikes and aesthetic improvements. She also highlighted the need for better implementation of the anti-collision system, known as Kavach, which was not operational on the affected route. Similarly, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Deepender Singh Hooda attributed the increase in railway accidents to the mismanagement and negligence of the central government, calling for accountability and better safety measures.

Investigations and Safety Concerns

Initial reports from railway sources indicated that the automatic signalling system in the section had failed earlier in the morning, necessitating the issuance of TA 912. However, there are discrepancies in how the goods train driver managed the defective signals, which is under investigation. The Railway Board’s Chairperson, Jaya Varma Sinha, confirmed that the Kavach system was not installed on this route, although plans for its implementation are underway.

Broader Implications and Future Measures

This accident has once again highlighted significant gaps in railway safety protocols and infrastructure. The recent spate of train accidents, including the devastating triple collision in Odisha’s Balasore district in June 2023, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive safety measures and modernization of railway systems. The implementation of the Kavach system across all major routes is crucial to prevent such tragedies.

In the wake of this accident, additional bus services have been introduced to assist stranded passengers, and the unaffected portion of the Kanchanjungha Express has resumed its journey. Rescue operations were reportedly delayed due to inclement weather, adding to the challenges faced by emergency responders.

Conclusion

The June 17 collision between the goods train and the Kanchanjungha Express serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in India’s railway infrastructure. As investigations continue, it is imperative for the Railway Ministry to expedite the implementation of advanced safety systems and ensure strict adherence to protocols to safeguard passengers’ lives. The collective response from the government, railway officials, and political leaders emphasizes the need for urgent reforms and a renewed focus on passenger safety.