Kolkata–Sairang Express Derails in Assam; Several Injured, No Casualties Reported

The Kolkata–Sairang Express was involved in a significant derailment incident near Digaru railway station in Assam early on November 11, 2026. While the term several meaning a number of people were affected, officials have confirmed that the incident resulted in injuries rather than fatalities. The train, which was traveling from Sairang in Mizoram back to Kolkata, derailed at approximately 6:54 am while attempting to enter a loop line at the station.

Understanding the several meaning of the incident

According to Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, the Chief Public Relations Officer of the Northeast Frontier Railway, the locomotive pilot was unable to maintain the required speed while entering the loop line, which had been set to allow a following train, the Guwahati–Jorhat Jan Shatabdi Express, to pass. The locomotive overturned and encroached upon an adjacent track, causing five additional coaches to derail. Preliminary findings indicate that the train was not moving at an excessively high speed, but investigators are currently reviewing whether the speed exceeded the specific limit set for loop line entries. Experts are also examining potential external factors, including visibility conditions and the functionality of the signaling system.

The Kolkata–Sairang Express derailment in Assam caused multiple injuries but resulted in zero fatalities.

Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the site, including an Accident Relief Special train. Approximately 60 passengers sustained minor injuries, while 11 others were reported to have serious injuries. All affected individuals were transported to four local hospitals for medical care. Railway officials noted that the use of modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches likely mitigated the severity of the accident. In response to the incident, the Eastern Railway has established a dedicated assistance booth at Sealdah station to provide information to passengers and their families.

Why it matters

This derailment disrupts rail connectivity between Mizoram and West Bengal, impacting travelers across the Northeast region. The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding rail safety protocols and the precision required for track switching, prompting a formal investigation into the actions of the locomotive pilot and the signaling sequence at Digaru station.