On June 17, 2024, the Kanchanjunga Express met with a severe accident near Badarpur Railway Station, resulting in significant disruption and casualties. The incident occurred around 2:30 PM when the train, traveling from Agartala to Sealdah, derailed as it was entering the station. Initial reports indicate that at least 15 passengers were injured, and one person tragically lost their life when a metal rod pierced his neck after shattering a window [❞] [❞].
Details of the Incident
The accident caused panic among the passengers, and emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene. Rescue operations were conducted swiftly, with injured passengers being transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The derailment caused a major delay, with the train being detained at the station for over two hours before services could partially resume.
Response and Investigation
Indian Railways officials have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the derailment. Preliminary findings suggest that a technical failure might have contributed to the incident. Additionally, maintenance records and track conditions are being scrutinized to prevent such accidents in the future.
Impact on Rail Services
The derailment of the Kanchanjunga Express disrupted rail services on the Northeast Frontier Railway line, causing delays and cancellations of several other trains. Passengers were advised to check the status of their trains through official channels and were offered refunds and alternate travel arrangements where possible.
Safety Measures and Future Precautions
In the wake of this tragedy, Indian Railways has emphasized the importance of safety measures and regular maintenance checks. There are plans to introduce more advanced monitoring systems and improve emergency response protocols to enhance passenger safety.
For more updates and detailed coverage, you can visit sources like the Hindustan Times and India Rail Info [❞] [❞].