15 dead, 60 injured as goods train hits Kanchenjunga express

• Collision between a goods train and Kanchanjunga Express near New Jalpaiguri resulted in 15 deaths and 60 injuries
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi announces ₹2 lakh compensation for each deceased passenger's family and ₹50,000 for each injured person
• Ongoing investigations into the cause of the collision as authorities work to restore disrupted railway services and support affected families

A tragic accident occurred in Darjeeling when a goods train collided with the Kanchenjunga Express, claiming the lives of 15 passengers and injuring 60 others. The collision occurred around 8:30 am as the Kanchanjunga Express traveled from Agartala to Kolkata's Sealdah station.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly announced financial aid through the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF). Each deceased passenger's next of kin will receive ₹2 lakh, while ₹50,000 will be provided to each injured individual. Rescue operations are ongoing, with injured passengers receiving medical care at nearby hospitals.

The incident has raised concerns about safety on the Northeast Frontier Railway's routes. Investigations are underway to determine the cause, focusing on potential signal failures or communication lapses. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured comprehensive measures to enhance passenger safety.

Efforts are underway to restore disrupted railway services and clear the tracks. The railway authorities have pledged ex-gratia payments to assist injured passengers and the families of those who lost their lives.