Following the tragic derailment of the Kanchenjunga Express in Darjeeling district earlier today, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has pledged a comprehensive overhaul of safety protocols and accountability measures within India’s railway infrastructure.
Visiting the accident site accompanied by a team of railway engineers and safety experts, Minister Vaishnaw expressed deep concern over the incident and its impact on passengers. He emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the derailment and to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“The safety of our passengers is paramount, and we are fully committed to ensuring a robust and reliable railway network,” stated Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw during his assessment of the accident site.
The derailment resulted in injuries to several passengers, who were promptly transported to North Bengal Medical College and Hospital for medical treatment. Minister Vaishnaw visited the hospital to meet with the injured and their families, assuring them of the government’s support and assistance in their recovery process.
“We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident involving the Kanchenjunga Express. Our immediate focus is on providing the best possible care to the injured and restoring normalcy in rail operations,” Minister Vaishnaw affirmed.
In response to growing concerns about railway safety, Minister Vaishnaw announced plans to review and strengthen safety protocols across all railway networks. He directed officials to expedite the implementation of advanced signaling systems, track maintenance procedures, and training programs for railway personnel to enhance operational safety.
Additionally, Minister Vaishnaw underscored the importance of transparent communication and accountability within the railway sector, ensuring that stringent measures are in place to prevent lapses in safety standards.
“As we move forward, we will ensure accountability at every level of our railway operations. Safety audits will be conducted rigorously, and necessary upgrades will be prioritized to safeguard the lives of our passengers,” Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured.
The Ministry of Railways has mobilized resources to restore rail services disrupted by the accident, collaborating closely with local authorities and emergency response teams to minimize inconvenience to passengers.
The Kanchenjunga Express derailment serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing one of the world’s largest railway networks. Minister Vaishnaw’s proactive response reflects the government’s commitment to prioritizing passenger safety and maintaining the integrity of India’s railways.