Train Collision in West Bengal’s Darjeeling District: Nine Dead, Criticism Aimed at Railways Ministry

Darjeeling, West Bengal — The death toll from the tragic train accident in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district has risen to nine. On Monday morning, a goods train collided with the Silchar-Kolkata Kanchanjunga Express, prompting a wave of criticism and calls for improved railway safety measures.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her dissatisfaction with the current state of the Railways, describing it as a “parentless” ministry more focused on “self-propaganda” than on passenger safety. She reminisced about her tenure as the Railway Minister, during which anti-collision devices were introduced in Konkan Railways. Despite a rebranding, she argues that passenger safety has not seen real improvements.

“The work for the installation of anti-collision devices started during my tenure as the Railway Minister. It was then applied to Konkan Railways. Today, the name of the anti-collision device might have been changed, but despite a new name, there is nothing called passenger safety. Presently, the Railway is nothing but a ‘propaganda-oriented’ department. The Railways had a rich heritage which has been destroyed now. Even there is no separate rail budget now,” Banerjee stated.

In response, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the accident site on Monday afternoon. He assured the public of a comprehensive investigation by the office of the Commissioner of Railway Safety to determine the cause of the accident and to implement corrective measures to prevent future incidents.

“The investigation will be conducted by the office of the Commissioner of Railway Safety. After we get a report, the real reason behind the accident will be known and corrective measures will be taken accordingly so that such mishaps are not repeated,” Minister Vaishnaw said.

Chief Minister Banerjee also highlighted ongoing issues faced by passengers, particularly in the Sealdah division. She criticized the poor conditions and lack of amenities, noting that even the bedding provided on long-distance trains is often dirty.

“I often hear about the problems faced by the passengers in the Sealdah division. Even the bedding provided to the passengers is often dirty. Such is the condition,” she claimed.

Referring to the accident site between New Jalpaiguri and Rangapani stations as a “black spot,” Banerjee emphasized the need for serious attention to this frequently troubled area.

“Accidents take place in that area frequently. Yet, the issue is not taken seriously,” she said.

The collision has reignited concerns about railway safety and infrastructure in India, calling for urgent attention to prevent further tragedies.