Ashwini Vaishnaw reaches ground zero; What happened till now in FIVE key points

New Delhi: A devastating train accident occurred on Monday morning in West Bengal, claiming the lives of 15 people. The Kanchenjunga Express traveling from Agartala to Sealdah was struck by a speeding freight train near Rangapani station. Rescue efforts are ongoing amidst the wreckage. Here's a breakdown of the incident and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav's response:

What led to collision?

The Kanchenjunga Express, en route to Sealdah, collided with a goods train approaching from behind near Rangapani station, close to Siliguri. The impact resulted in severe damage to three bogies of the passenger train. Sadly, initial reports confirm 15 fatalities, with an additional 60 passengers injured.

Immediate response and relief efforts

Indian Railways has confirmed extensive damage to two passenger compartments and one luggage van. Authorities have activated all government and private healthcare facilities in the vicinity to accommodate the injured.

Railway Minister expresses condolences and outlines further action

1. Minister Vaishnav's deep regret: The Railway Minister expressed his profound grief over the tragic accident and strongly condemned the incident. "Right now our focus is on restoration. This is the main line. The rescue operation has been completed. This is not the time for politics. I will also meet the injured," Vaishnaw told reporters.
   The Railways Minister also visited the North Bengal Medical College in Siliguri and met the injured.

2. Prioritization of rescue: Minister Vaishnav took to social media, emphasizing that rescue operations are underway on a war footing.

3. Coordinated response: He assured the public that Railways, NDRF (National Disaster Response Force), and SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) are working in close collaboration. Injured passengers are being transported to hospitals, while senior officials have reached the accident site.

4. Opposition calls for accountability: Congress party has demanded the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav in the wake of the accident. They accuse him of failing to address issues of accountability and safety within the railways.

5. RJD's criticism on privatization: RJD leader Bhai Virendra echoed the call for the Minister's resignation. He contends that accidents are becoming inevitable due to railway privatization.

Mamata Banerjee offers support

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her condolences on social media, stating her shock upon learning of the incident. She confirmed the dispatch of District Magistrates, Superintendents of Police, medical personnel, ambulances, and disaster response teams to the accident site. Rescue, recovery, and medical assistance operations are underway on a priority basis.