New Delhi, June 17: Officials reported that the death toll from the collision between the Kanchanjungha Express and a goods train has risen to eight as of Monday.

According to Abhishek Roy, Additional Superintendent of Police, Darjeeling district, among the deceased is the loco pilot of the goods train that collided with the Kanchanjungha Express.

Roy indicated that the death toll could potentially rise further as rescue operations continue. The number of injured has already surpassed 30, he added.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has decided to visit the accident site to personally oversee the ongoing rescue efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned in a social media post that Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is en route to the accident location.

As the influx of injured persons to hospitals in North Bengal grows, the state health department has begun assessing the availability of blood reserves. All medical staff and emergency personnel have had their leave canceled indefinitely.

Meanwhile, the North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC) has announced special bus services between Siliguri and Kolkata to assist passengers who were traveling on the affected train bound for Kolkata.

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