Train collision kills at least 8 in eastern India

NEW DELHI

At least eight passengers died and 25 others were injured after a passenger train was hit by a cargo train in eastern India, officials said on Monday.

“We so far have eight casualties and around 25 have been injured and they have been shifted to nearby hospitals for medical attention,” Sabyasachi De, an Indian railways official, said about the accident in West Bengal state.

He said the Kanchanjunga Express train was hit from the rear by a goods train. “Why it happened is a question which will be responded after a detailed investigation is completed,” he added.

State Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said disaster teams were rushed to the site for rescue, recovery, medical assistance, and “action on war-footing initiated.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the railway accident is saddening. “Condolences to those who lost their loved ones,” he wrote on X, adding that Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is on the way to the site of the mishap.