Kolkata-Sairang Express derails near Guwahati, several injured

Guwahati, Nov 11: A routine train journey turned chaotic on Wednesday morning when the Kolkata-Sairang Express derailed near Guwahati, injuring several passengers and prompting railway authorities to launch emergency rescue and restoration efforts.

The accident took place at around 6.54 am while the train was travelling from Sairang in Mizoram towards Kolkata. Soon after receiving information about the derailment, senior officials of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) rushed to the site and emergency operations were launched.

Rescue teams, railway personnel and local authorities began assessing the situation and assisting affected passengers. While a number of travellers reportedly suffered injuries, officials were yet to confirm the exact number of injured passengers or the seriousness of their condition.

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Northeast Frontier Railway officials said there had been no reports of fatalities so far.

"Six coaches of the Kolkata–Sairang Express derailed at Digaru railway station at around 6.54 a.m. today. So far, no casualties have been reported. Our senior officials have rushed to the spot," Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer of the Northeast Frontier Railway, told IANS.

The derailment is expected to impact train services on the route, with railway teams working to clear the affected stretch and restore normal movement at the earliest. Authorities were also making arrangements to ensure the safety and convenience of stranded passengers.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Railway officials are expected to initiate a detailed inquiry to determine what led to the derailment and whether any technical or operational factors were involved.

The Kolkata-Sairang Express serves as a crucial rail connection between Mizoram and eastern India, making the incident particularly significant for railway operations in the Northeast.

(IANS)