Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw rushed to the site of a tragic train collision involving the Kanchanjunga Express and a freight train in West Bengal's Darjeeling district. The incident, which resulted in the death of 9 passengers and left over 60 injured, prompted swift action from the Ministry of Railways.

Vaishnaw, upon arrival, emphasized the completion of rescue operations and the immediate focus on restoring the affected railway tracks. He assured the public that efforts were underway to prevent such accidents in the future, with a thorough investigation promised by the Commissioner of Railway Safety.

In response to the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ex-gratia compensation from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund. Vaishnaw further enhanced the compensation for the victims: Rs. 10 lakh for the families of the deceased, Rs. 2.5 lakh for grievously injured, and Rs. 50,000 for those with minor injuries.

The tragedy drew political reactions, notably from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who criticized the Railway Ministry's handling of safety and passenger amenities. She visited the injured at the North Bengal Medical College and demanded better railway management.

The collision disrupted train services in the region temporarily, with efforts underway to clear the tracks and resume operations promptly. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges in railway safety management and the critical need for infrastructure upgrades and accident prevention measures.

Railway authorities, along with National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), coordinated rescue efforts efficiently. The injured were swiftly transported to hospitals for treatment, with senior officials closely monitoring the situation.

The Ministry of Railways, amidst criticism and condolences, reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and operational excellence. The incident will be thoroughly investigated to determine the causes and prevent future occurrences, ensuring that railways remain a safe and reliable mode of transportation for millions of commuters across India.

In conclusion, while the tragic collision near Rangapani station in West Bengal has left a somber mark, the response from authorities, political leaders, and the public highlights the collective efforts needed to address railway safety comprehensively and compassionately.

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