In a devastating incident, a freight train collided with a passenger train in India’s West Bengal state, resulting in the loss of at least 15 lives and leaving numerous others injured. The accident occurred in the Darjeeling district on Monday morning.

Human Error Suspected as Cause Initial reports indicate that human error may have been the cause of the collision. India’s bustling railway system witnesses hundreds of accidents annually, and this latest tragedy underscores the need for improved safety measures.

Rescue Efforts Underway Rescue teams, including police and national disaster response forces, are working tirelessly to clear debris from the derailed carriages. Nearly 30 people have been injured, and the situation remains critical. Doctors, ambulances, and disaster response teams have been dispatched to the crash site near the New Jalpaiguri station.

Railway Personnel Among the Victims Sabyasachi De, spokesperson for the Northeast Frontier Railway, confirmed that three of the deceased were railway personnel. The collision caused significant damage, with one train compartment rising vertically into the air upon impact.

West Bengal Chief Minister Responds West Bengal’s Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, expressed her grief over the incident. She labelled it as “tragic” and assured that action was being taken urgently. However, immediate confirmation of casualties was not provided.

Jaya Varma Sinha, head of the railway board overseeing the countrywide network, addressed reporters, revealing that the freight train driver had disregarded a signal, leading to the collision. Four compartments at the rear of the passenger train derailed due to the impact, most of which were carrying cargo, while one was a passenger coach.

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