At least 49 killed in West Bengal train mishap

Sainthia (West Bengal), July 19(ANI): At least 49 people have been killed and 89 others injured when the Uttarbanga Express (New Cooch Bihar-Sealdah) rammed into a stationary Vanachal Express (Bhagalpur-Ranchi) at Sainthia Station in West Bengal's Birbhum District on Monday.

The accident occurred around 1.50 am when the Uttarbanga Express overshot a signal.

Three rear compartments of the Vananchal Express bore the brunt of the impact and were completely mangled.

Relief operations are on and around 32 bodies have been reportedly removed from the wreckage.

According to reports, equipment like gas cutters are being used to rescue passengers struck in the mangled bogies.

An inquiry headed by the Commissioner of Railway Safety has been ordered into the incident.

Railway authorities have opened several helpline numbers and control rooms in Sealdah, Malda, Bhagalpur and Howrah.

Helpline numbers: Ranchi: 0651-2600263/64, 2460488, 2461404 -- Sealdah: 033-23503535, 23503537, -- Malda: 06436-222061 -- Bhagalpur: 06412-4222433 -- Jamalpur 063444-3101.(ANI)