Panel to probe toy train derailment

TT, Siliguri, Jan. 11: The Northeast Frontier Railway has formed an inquiry committee to investigate yesterday's incident in which an engine and a coach of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway jumped tracks near Mahanadi in Kurseong subdivision.

The train services on the route resumed today.

Sources in the DHR said the four-member panel was likely to submit its report in the next four days.

"Our officials and engineers have visited the spot near Kurseong (37km from here) where the engine and a coach jumped tracks and six persons were injured. After inspecting the site, we formed a four-member committee that will investigate the incident to ascertain the cause," Partha Seal, the DHR area manager of New Jalpaiguri, who is also one of the members of the committee, said.

The incident took place around 3.25pm yesterday. The toy train was heading towards Siliguri from Darjeeling with around 40 passengers in three compartments.

"We have cleared the tracks. Toy train services resumed this morning," Seal said.

An official of the NFR said: "During investigation, the committee will find out several things, like if the train was speeding, if the track was clear and if there was a technical fault in the engine. The committee members will submit a report with recommendations. If anybody is found responsible for the accident, necessary steps will be taken against that person."

A source said Union railway minister Suresh Prabhu was expected to visit Darjeeling on January 19 and 20 to attend the railway consultative committee's meeting.

An NFR official said the toy trains and tracks were inspected frequently. "There is no question of neglecting maintenance work of tracks, coaches and engines. There is no question of any complacency from our end. We put in necessary efforts so that the toy trains move without any disruption," he said.