PM Modi Condoles Loss of Lives in West Bengal Railway Accident

New Delhi- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences for the tragic loss of lives in the recent railway accident in West Bengal. He assured that rescue operations are in full swing to assist those affected by the mishap. Union Minister for Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, is en route to the site to oversee the rescue efforts.

The Prime Minister's Office has announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) to the next of kin of each deceased, and Rs. 50,000 for those injured in the accident.

Prime Minister Modi shared his sentiments on X:

“The railway accident in West Bengal is deeply saddening. My heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. I have spoken to officials and reviewed the situation. Rescue operations are ongoing to support those affected. The Railways Minister, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Ji, is on his way to the mishap site.”

At least eight people, including the loco pilot, were killed and around 25 others sustained injuries after a goods train rammed into Kanchanjunga Express near Rangapani station under Siliguri subdivision in West Bengal’s Darjeeling district.

Meanwhile, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who is enroute to Darjeeling, announced an enhanced ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the kin of the deceased and Rs 2.5 lakh for seriously injured. Rs 50,000 will also be given to those who sustained minor injuries in the accident.

“Enhanced ex-gratia compensation will be provided to the victims – Rs 10 lakhs in case of death and Rs 2.5 lakhs towards grievous and Rs 50,000 for minor injuries,” the minister said.

Earlier, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) had announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 2 lakh and Rs 50,000 for the deceased and the injured, respectively.