Guwahati-Bikaner Express derails near Jalpaiguri; 5 killed, several injured

At least five people were killed when the Guwahati-Bikaner Express 15633 (up) derailed in Moynaguri, near Jalpaiguri in West Bengal around 5 pm today. Nearly 1200 passengers were travelling in

At least five people were killed when the Guwahati-Bikaner Express 15633 (up) derailed in Moynaguri, near Jalpaiguri in West Bengal around 5 pm today. Nearly 1200 passengers were travelling in its 18 coaches.

A total of 12 coaches of the express train have been affected, said Railway officials. Also three coaches capsized. Passengers spoke of a ‘jolt’ after which the train derailed.

At 4.53 pm, the train left New Domohani station. Reportedly it derailed as it approached the block section between New Domohani and New Maynaguri stations 

Meanwhile, the Assam police have dispatched a team to the accident site for coordination. The General Manager of Northeast Frontier Railway is also travelling with the team.  

A relief train has reached the accident site to bring passengers to Guwahati. Injured were rushed to hospitals in the area including the Jalpaiguri Sadar Hospital.

Railways have announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakhs and Rs 1 lakh for the injured. 

The Guwhati-Bikaner Express had left Bikaner in Rajasthan at 1.45 am yesterday on January 12.

A high-level Railway Safety inquiry has been ordered on the incident. Meanwhile, Alipurduar Junction has opened two hotline numbers for inquiries about the accident- 050 34666 and 03564 255190.

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