Guwahati: At least 5 coaches of the Guwahati-Bikaner Express train (15633) derailed near Domohani village, Mayanguri (Jalpaiguri) at around 5 pm, in West Bengal on Thursday.
The train which was moving at a speed of 40 kmph derailed near Mayanguri in West Bengal. However, the exact number of passengers on the train is yet to ascertain.
The reports further claimed at least 5 passengers have died and several others are feared trapped.
Meanwhile, the rescue operation is underway and gas cutters are being used in the said operation.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced enhanced ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh for kin of those who have died and Rs 1 lakh for those with grievous injury and Rs 25,000 for minor injuries.
Taking to the micro-blogging site Twitter, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee those injured will receive medical attention, as early as possible.
''Deeply concerned to hear about the tragic accident of the Bikaner-Guwahati Express in Maynaguri. Senior Officers of the State Government, DM/SP/IG North Bengal are supervising rescue and relief operations. Those injured will receive medical attention, as early as possible,'' she added.
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi too took the stock of the situation and expressed condolences.
''Spoke to Railways Minister Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw and took stock of the situation in the wake of the train accident in West Bengal. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover quickly,'' he tweeted.
On the other hand, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma prayed for the injured people and said the Assam government is closely monitoring the situation.
''Extremely pained by the loss of lives in the horrific train mishap in North Bengal today. Condolences to the bereaved. Praying for the injured. I spoke to Hon'ble Railway Minister Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw Ji. We are monitoring the situation and shall offer all possible assistance,'' he tweeted.
Railways has issued several helpline numbers for any information regarding the derailed Guwahati-Bikaner express train.
Patna junction - 9341506016
Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Jn- 7388898100
Danapur 7759070004
Sonpur 9771429999