National Desk, 17th June: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that families of the deceased in the recent railway accident near Rangapani station in West Bengal will receive Rs 2 lakh each from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). Additionally, Rs 50,000 will be provided to each injured person as ex-gratia relief.
Expressing sorrow over the incident on social media platform X, PM Modi conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. He assured that officials were briefed on the situation and that rescue operations were actively underway. The Railways Minister, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, was also en route to the site to oversee operations.
The mishap involved a collision between the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express and a goods train, resulting in the loss of at least five lives and injuries to around 30 others. The incident occurred near Rangapani station in West Bengal’s Phansidewa area, causing substantial damage to three coaches of the Kanchanjunga Express (Train No. 13174).
Prompt response efforts were launched immediately after the accident, with injured passengers swiftly transported to nearby hospitals for urgent medical care.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed shock and promptly mobilized rescue teams, medical aid, and district authorities to manage the crisis effectively in the Phansidewa area.
The collision occurred during the morning hours, disrupting railway services in the region and prompting a focused response from local authorities and railway personnel.
The tragedy has sparked condolences from across the nation, with efforts ongoing to support the affected and ensure comprehensive relief measures.
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