New Delhi (June 17, 2024): In response to a tragic train accident in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the next of kin of those killed. The accident, which occurred when a goods train collided with the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express, resulted in the death of at least 15 passengers and left 60 others injured.

The minister has promptly traveled to West Bengal to oversee the ongoing relief operations and ensure that the affected receive timely assistance.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. Our priority is to provide immediate relief and medical care to the injured and support to the families of the deceased,” said Vaishnaw.

In addition to the Rs 10 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased, the minister also announced Rs 2.5 lakh for those grievously injured and Rs 50,000 for those with minor injuries.

Emergency response teams have been mobilized to the accident site, and rescue operations are underway to assist the injured and clear the wreckage. The railway authorities are also investigating the cause of the collision to prevent such incidents in the future.